Escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel: Situation as of Sunday 3 p.m. – International reactions and strategies

Following the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Iran reacted with a targeted military attack against Israel, marking a notable escalation in regional tensions. International reactions were fast, underlining the different strategies adopted by regional and global actors.

Reactions and diplomatic measures

United Nations: Amir Saeid Iravani, the representative of Iran, justified the attack as a legitimate defence, per Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, while warning of a fiercer response in the event of further provocations.

European Union: The reaction has been measured, with calls for restraint to avoid an escalation into a regional war. Measures have been taken to protect European interests in the region.

United States: John Kirby, spokesperson for the US National Security Council, emphasised that the majority of attacks came from Iran and its allies in the region while ruling out an escalation into a regional war.

Military and security responses

Israel: The Israeli government, under the leadership of Benjamin Netanyahu, called a war council to examine response options, while building a regional front against the Iranian threat.

Iran: Iranian army commander Abdolrahim Mousavi has warned that any US intervention would result in targeted responses against US bases in the region.

Commercial and security implications

Resumption of air traffic: After a momentary suspension due to the security situation, flights have resumed in several countries, including Israel, emphasising the direct economic impact of the military escalation.

Financial and business markets: The tension has also impacted financial markets, with investors closely monitoring developments to anticipate the overall economic repercussions.

International calls for diplomacy

France: Emmanuel Macron strongly denounced the Iranian attack, while calling for restraint to avoid a wider conflict.

Russia: The reaction was more nuanced, with Russia calling for balanced condemnation of the actions of both parties involved.