Saudi Arabia, Oman condemn Israeli 'aggression' against Iran

Saudi Arabia, Oman condemn Israeli 'aggression' against Iran

Riyadh, which restored ties with Tehran two years ago, denounced the attacks as "blatant Israeli aggressions" undermining Iran's sovereignty, according to a statement from the Saudi Foreign Ministry.

Saudi Arabia and Oman strongly condemned Israel's airstrikes on Iran early on Friday, calling them a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.

Riyadh, which restored ties with Tehran two years ago, denounced the attacks as "blatant Israeli aggressions" undermining Iran's sovereignty, according to a statement from the Saudi Foreign Ministry.

Oman described the strikes as a "brutal military aggression" and a "dangerous and reckless escalation," in violation of the UN Charter and international law.

It called on the international community to act swiftly to stop further escalation, warning the attack could derail ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Oman is scheduled to host a sixth round of negotiations on Tehran's nuclear program on Sunday in Muscat.

Around the globe, world leaders reacted with calls for restraint and warnings against further escalation.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement saying, "Israel took unilateral action against Iran," which did not involve the US. He warned Iran against targeting US interests in the region. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel."

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the escalation had alarmed her country and called for restraint.

"We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programme represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy," Wong said.

In nearby New Zealand, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon termed the event a "really unwelcome development."

"The risk of miscalculation is high. That region does not need any more military action, and the risk associated with that," Luxon said.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said that Tokyo was making all diplomatic efforts to keep the situation from deteriorating further and protect Japanese citizens.

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