UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalating conflict in the Middle East, urging all parties involved, including Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas, to cease hostilities. He stated, "I condemn the broadening of the Middle East conflict, with escalation after escalation. This must stop. We absolutely need a ceasefire." This call reflects a growing concern about the potential for wider conflict in the region and the humanitarian consequences that may arise from ongoing hostilities.
In reaction to Guterres’s statements, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz announced that he would bar Guterres from entering Israel, criticizing him for not specifically condemning Iran’s missile attack, indicating, "The UN chief's failure to specifically condemn Iran over the attack is unacceptable, and therefore he will not be allowed entry into Israel." This stark move underscores the strained relations and differing perspectives on accountability among world leaders.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz voiced strong condemnation of Iran's missile attacks, stating, "Iran is risking a conflagration, this must be prevented." He emphasized the necessity for Hezbollah and Iran to halt their aggression against Israel, advocating for the safety of displaced individuals by insisting that refugees from southern Lebanon and northern Israel should be able to return home without fear.
Josep Borrell, EU’s chief diplomat, expressed the bloc's dual commitment to Israel's security while urging restraint from all involved parties, including Israel. He warned that the ongoing series of attacks could lead to an "uncontrollable regional escalation," highlighting the delicate balance and urgency required in the current volatile situation.
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