'Can't Have Nuclear Bomb': Global Leaders Urge Restraint As Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates

Last Updated:June 13, 2025, 18:49 IST

The latest attack has raised serious concerns around the world, with many countries warning against further violence in the Middle East

People chant slogans during a protest against Israel's wave of strikes on Iran in Enghelab (Revolution) Square in central Tehran on June 13. (AFP photo)

World leaders on Friday have called for calm after Israel launched a large-scale military strike on Iran, hitting over 100 targets, including nuclear and military sites. The attack has raised serious concerns around the world, with many countries warning against further violence in the Middle East.

The strikes, which reportedly killed senior Iranian figures, came amid rising tensions between the two countries. In response, global leaders urged both sides to avoid further escalation.

US President Donald Trump said he had been informed of Israel’s plans in advance. Speaking to Fox News, he said, “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see." He also said the US was prepared to defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on both sides to show “maximum restraint".

“He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran’s nuclear programme are underway," said Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

French President Emmanuel Macron in a lengthy post on X, shared, “France has repeatedly condemned Iran’s ongoing nuclear program and has taken all appropriate diplomatic measures in response. In this context, France reaffirms Israel’s right to defend itself and ensure its security."

“To avoid jeopardizing the stability of the entire region, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to de-escalate," Macron stated.

Russia strongly condemned the strikes, calling them “unacceptable" and “unprovoked." Russian Spokesman Dmitry Peskov also urged its citizens in Israel to leave the country for safety.

China said it was “deeply worried" about the situation and called on all parties to avoid actions that could worsen tensions.

In a statement, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian called on “relevant parties to take actions that promote regional peace and stability and to avoid further escalation of tensions."

Meanwhile, Iran-backed groups such as Hamas and Yemen’s Houthi rebels strongly condemned the Israeli attack and said Iran had the right to defend itself.

(With inputs from agencies)

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News world 'Can't Have Nuclear Bomb': Global Leaders Urge Restraint As Iran-Israel Conflict Escalates