The African Union has expressed deep concern over coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel on targets inside Iran, warning that the development marks a serious escalation in the Middle East.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf, said he was “deeply concerned” by the reported strikes, describing them as a dangerous intensification of hostilities.
He called for restraint, urgent de-escalation and sustained dialogue, urging all parties to act in line with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard global peace and security.
Youssouf warned that further escalation could worsen global instability, with far-reaching consequences for energy markets, food security and economic resilience, especially in Africa where many countries are already grappling with conflict and economic strain.
He also urged support for diplomatic engagement, including mediation efforts led by the Sultanate of Oman, stressing that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, not force.
The European Council also reacted to the development. Its president, António Costa, described the situation in Iran as greatly concerning and said the EU remains in close contact with partners in the region.
Costa reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to regional security and stability, highlighting the importance of ensuring nuclear safety and preventing further escalation that could undermine the global non-proliferation regime.
He noted that the EU has imposed extensive sanctions over the actions of Iran’s government and the Revolutionary Guards, while continuing to promote diplomatic solutions to address Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic programmes.
The condemnation followed a wave of strikes on Iranian cities, including explosions reported in the capital, Tehran.
US President Donald Trump said Washington’s objective was to eliminate imminent threats from Iran, stating that US forces had begun major combat operations. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the action as a preventive strike.
The situation has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, with global leaders calling for calm and a return to diplomatic engagement.
