Calls for restraint emerge as fears of wider Israel-Iran war grow

As fears of a full-blown conflict between Israel and Iran escalate, world leaders are urging both countries to exercise restraint and prioritise diplomacy.

Pakistan has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's attacks on Iran, warning they pose a “grave danger and a serious threat” to peace, security, and regional stability.

At an emergency session of the UN Security Council, Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Iran and called for urgent international action. He warned that Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities “pose a serious threat to peace in the region and beyond” and emphasised the need to “resolve the crisis through dialogue and diplomacy”.

Russia and China have also offered to mediate, joining the United Nations, European Union, Saudi Arabia and Qatar in calling for de-escalation. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Israel’s actions, calling them “a violation of the UN Charter and international legal norms”.

The Kremlin reported that Putin held separate calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging both to show restraint. It added that “any concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme must be addressed through peaceful means”.

China echoed similar concerns. Its foreign ministry warned that “continued hostilities could destabilise the Middle East”. Without naming Israel directly, Beijing condemned violations of Iran’s sovereignty and signalled willingness to mediate, referencing its role in mending ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia in 2023.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning after the recent exchange of attacks, declaring: “Enough escalation. Time to stop. Peace and diplomacy must prevail.”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also weighed in, describing the situation as “deeply alarming”. While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defence, she urged that “maintaining regional stability must remain the priority”.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed their concern during calls with US President Donald Trump. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stressed “the need for calm and diplomatic efforts”, while Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani also emphasised the importance of preventing the region from spiralling into deeper conflict.

As Israel vows to annihilate Iran’s nuclear programme, the international community is making urgent appeals for peace — warning that the consequences of inaction may be catastrophic.