Global Reactions Pour In: Russia, China Condemn US-Israel Strikes on Iran
By Juba Global News Network | JubaGlobal.com
February 28, 2026
As explosions continue to echo across Tehran and Iranian missiles streak toward Israel in retaliation, the international community has responded with a mix of condemnation, calls for restraint, and cautious support following the joint U.S.-Israeli preemptive strikes on Iran. The operation—announced by President Donald Trump as “major combat operations”—has drawn sharp criticism from key global players, particularly Russia and China, who have accused Washington and Tel Aviv of violating international law and risking a broader regional catastrophe.
Russia’s reaction has been among the most forceful. The Russian Foreign Ministry swiftly labeled the strikes a “pre-planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent U.N. member state.” In a strongly worded statement posted on Telegram, Moscow demanded an immediate halt to the military campaign and a return to diplomatic channels. The ministry accused the U.S. and Israel of using concerns over Iran’s nuclear program as a pretext for pursuing regime change, warning that the attacks could trigger a “humanitarian, economic, and possibly radiological catastrophe” in the region. Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council and a former president, took to social media to mock President Trump, referring to him sarcastically as “the peacemaker” and questioning the longevity of U.S. resolve compared to Iran’s ancient civilization. “The Persian Empire was founded more than 2,500 years ago. Let’s see in 100 years,” Medvedev posted, highlighting perceived American impatience in prolonged conflicts.
China, Iran’s close economic partner and a major buyer of its oil, has adopted a more measured but critical tone. Beijing has long advocated for diplomacy in the Middle East and reiterated its call for all parties to “exercise restraint and resolve differences through dialogue.” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokespeople emphasized the need to avoid unilateral military actions that undermine regional stability. While China has historically avoided direct military backing for Iran—refraining from material support even during the 2025 “12-day war” between Israel and Iran—analysts note that Beijing views the strikes as destabilizing to its interests in energy security and Belt and Road initiatives. Reports indicate China urged its citizens in Iran to evacuate “as soon as possible” ahead of the escalation, signaling deep concern over potential fallout. Some Chinese state-affiliated commentary has suggested the U.S. and Israeli actions reveal intentions for regime change, with negotiations serving merely as a “diplomatic cover.”
European responses have been varied but predominantly focused on de-escalation. The European Union foreign policy chief described the developments as “perilous,” noting coordination with Arab partners to explore diplomatic paths. Norway’s Foreign Minister explicitly stated that the strikes, described by Israel as preventive, “are not in line with international law,” as preventive attacks require an immediately imminent threat. Belgium expressed regret over the failure of diplomacy, while Germany acknowledged being informed in advance by Israel. The United Kingdom emphasized it had not participated in the strikes and prioritized preventing further escalation, reiterating opposition to a nuclear-armed Iran.
Gulf Arab states, many hosting U.S. military facilities targeted in Iran’s retaliation, have condemned the Iranian missile strikes on their territory while expressing alarm over the broader conflict. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait—hit by Iranian projectiles—reserved the right to respond, heightening fears of a widening war.
In contrast, some voices in the West and among Iranian opposition figures offered qualified support. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese backed U.S. efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while certain U.S. congressional figures, including allies of President Trump, described the operation as “necessary and long justified.”
The polarized reactions underscore deep geopolitical divides: Russia and China frame the strikes as aggressive violations of sovereignty that threaten global order, while Western allies prioritize preventing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and supporting Israel. As oil prices surge and airspace across the Middle East closes, the strikes have dimmed hopes for any near-term diplomatic resolution to the long-standing nuclear dispute.
With retaliatory exchanges ongoing and the risk of further escalation high, the world watches anxiously. Calls for U.N. Security Council intervention grow louder, though divisions among permanent members make unified action unlikely.
Juba Global News Network will provide ongoing coverage as international statements evolve and the conflict develops. Stay updated at JubaGlobal.com.
By: Juba Global News Network | JubaGlobal.com
