INTERNATIONAL NEWS
AFRICA – The African Union has voiced grave concern over coordinated military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel on targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran, describing the development as a dangerous escalation in the Middle East.
In a statement posted Saturday on X, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf, said he was “deeply concerned” about the reported strikes, noting that the action represents a serious intensification of hostilities in an already volatile region.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Youssouf called for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue, urging all parties to adhere strictly to international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter in order to safeguard global peace and security.
He warned that any further escalation could deepen global instability, with far-reaching consequences for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly across Africa, where many countries are already grappling with conflict and economic pressures.
The AU Chairperson encouraged all actors to prioritize diplomatic engagement, including ongoing mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, to prevent further deterioration and uphold the international rules-based order.
Reiterating the AU’s longstanding position, Youssouf stressed that sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not military force.
European Union Responds
Meanwhile, President of the European Council, António Costa, described the situation in Iran as “greatly concerning,” adding that the European Union remains in close contact with its regional partners.
Costa reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional security and stability, emphasizing the importance of nuclear safety and the need to prevent any actions that could escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime.
He noted that the EU has imposed extensive sanctions in response to actions by Iran’s government and the Revolutionary Guards, while consistently advocating for a negotiated solution to concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programmes.
Costa further assured that, in coordination with EU Member States, steps would be taken to support and protect EU citizens in the region.
He called on all sides to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and fully respect international law.
The reactions from the AU and EU follow a wave of strikes on Saturday by the United States and Israel targeting sites in several Iranian cities, including the capital, Tehran, where explosions and plumes of smoke were reported.
US President Donald Trump said the objective of the operation was to eliminate what he described as imminent threats from Iran. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz characterized the action as a “preventive strike.”
In a video message shared on social media, Trump announced that the United States military had begun major combat operations in Iran.
He stated that Washington intends to destroy Iran’s missile capabilities and dismantle its missile industry, vowing to “obliterate” key military assets, including the country’s navy.
