Latest news with #AYATOLLAHALIKHAMENEI
Japan Today
4 days ago
- Politics
- Japan Today
Putin on Iran, Khamenei, regime change, Ukraine and NATO
Russian President Vladimir Putin, center, meets with the heads of international news agencies at the newly renovated St. Petersburg Rimsky-Korsakov State Conservatory on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia on Wednesday. Russian President Vladimir Putin made the following comments to senior news agency editors on the conflict between Iran and Israel, NATO and the war in Ukraine. The remarks were translated from Russian by Reuters reporters. ASKED ABOUT HIS REACTION IF ISRAEL AND THE UNITED STATES KILLED IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI: "If I may, I hope that this will be the most correct answer to your question. I do not even want to discuss this possibility. I do not want to." "I hear all this, but I don't even want to discuss it." ON POSSIBLE REGIME CHANGE IN IRAN: "You always need to look at whether the goal is achieved or not when starting something. We see that today in Iran, with all the complexity of the internal political processes taking place there, we are aware of this, and I think there is no point in going deeper, but nevertheless there is a consolidation of society around the country's political leadership. This happens almost always and everywhere, and Iran is no exception. This is the first thing. "The second thing that is very important is that everyone is talking about it, I will only repeat what we know and hear from all sides, these underground factories, they exist, nothing has happened to them. And in this regard, it seems to me that it would be right for everyone to look for ways to end hostilities and find ways for all parties to this conflict to come to an agreement with each other in order to ensure both Iran's interests, on the one hand, for its nuclear activities, including peaceful nuclear activities, of course (I mean peaceful nuclear energy and the peaceful atom in other areas), as well as to ensure the interests of Israel from the point of view of the unconditional security of the Jewish state. This is a delicate issue, and, of course, you need to be very careful here, but in my opinion, in general, such a solution can be found." ON SUPPORTING IRAN: "We are in contact with our Iranian partners on an ongoing basis. Today in contact. I think tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. We continue our relationship. "And secondly, as I have already said, our specialists are working in Bushehr. 250 people and other business travellers. The total number can reach 600. And we're not leaving. Isn't that support? Iran has not asked us for any other support." ON HELPING IRAN WITH WEAPONS: "We once offered our Iranian friends to work in the field of air defense systems, but our partners didn't show much interest then, and that's it. As for the agreement you mentioned about the strategic partnership, there are no articles related to the defense sphere... And thirdly, our Iranian friends don't even ask us to do this. So there's practically nothing to discuss." "Our proposal was to create a system, not separate supplies, but a system. We eventually discussed this once, but the Iranian side didn't show much interest in it, and it all died down. As for individual deliveries, yes, of course, we carried out these deliveries at one time. This has nothing to do with today's crisis. It was what is called regular cooperation in the military-technical sphere. And within the framework of international norms." ON RELATIONS WITH U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: Regarding a possible meeting with Mr. Trump, it would certainly be extremely useful. I agree with the President of the United States - it must, of course, be prepared and end with some positive results... We have great respect for his intention to restore relations with Russia in many areas of security and economic activity. "There are already contacts between our large companies that want to return. This, by and large, inspires such a certain restrained optimism. And I hope that both the President of the United States and his inner circle will see and hear this. And together with business representatives, decisions will be made aimed at restoring Russian-American relations." ON NATO: "We do not consider any NATO rearmament to be a threat to the Russian Federation, because we are self-sufficient in terms of ensuring our security. And we are constantly improving our armed forces and our defensive capabilities. Whatever NATO does, of course, it creates certain threats, but we will stop all these threats that will arise. There is no doubt about it. In this sense, any rearmament and budget increase to 5% of the GDP of NATO countries makes no sense. "Secondly. Over the centuries, unfortunately, in the West, from time to time, for decades, the question of the threat from Russia has always arisen. It was so convenient for the Western elites to build their internal policy, because on the basis of an imaginary threat from the east, they could extort money from taxpayers and all the time explain their own mistakes in the field of economics by the threat from the east. "If the NATO countries want to further increase their budget, well, that's their business. But it won't do anyone any good. Of course, they will create additional risks. Well, yes, they will. But it's not our decision. I think this is completely irrational and pointless. And, of course, there are no threats from Russia. It's just nonsense." ON RELATIONS WITH THE WEST: "It is clear that the current crisis in relations between Russia and Western Europe began in 2014. But the problem is not that Russia annexed Crimea, but that Western countries contributed to the coup in Ukraine. We've heard all the time before: you have to live by the rules. By what rules? Well, what kind of rule is this when three states, France, Germany, and Poland, came to Kyiv and, as guarantors, signed a paper of agreements between the opposition and the authorities led by President (Viktor) Yanukovich. A few days later, the opposition launched a coup. And no one even sneezed, as if nothing had happened. "And then we hear: we have to live by the rules. What are the rules? What are you thinking of? Do you write rules for others, but you're not going to follow anything yourself? Well, who's going to live like this? That's where the crisis started. But not because Russia acted from a position of strength. "Our Western partners have always acted, at least from a position of strength, after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Because the world order after World War Two was based on a balance of power between the victors. And now one of the winners is gone - the Soviet Union has collapsed. Well, the Westerners began to rewrite these rules for themselves. What are the rules? ON WHETHER HE HAD MADE MISTAKES IN HIS TIME IN POWER: "Let him who is without sin cast the first the stone. Let's leave it at that." ON MEETING UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT VOLODYMYR ZELENSKYY: "We are ready to meet, as I said, by the way, I am ready to meet with everyone, including Zelenskyy. Yes, that's not the question. "If the Ukrainian state trusts someone to negotiate, for God's sake, let it be Zelenskyy. That's not the question. The question is who will sign the documents... When dealing with serious issues, it is important for us not to have a propaganda component, but a legal one." "But the point must be made, the signature must be from the legitimate authorities, otherwise, you know, the next one will come and throw it all in the bin. But you can't do that either, we're dealing with serious issues. That's why I'm not giving up on this, but a lot of work needs to be done." ON SPEAKING TO GERMANY'S MERZ: "If the Federal Chancellor wants to call and talk, I have already said this many times - we do not refuse any contacts. And we are always open to this... At some point, when our European partners decided to inflict a strategic defeat on us on the battlefield, they themselves stopped these contacts. They stopped, let them resume. We are open to them. "I do doubt if Germany can contribute more than the United States as a mediator in our negotiations with Ukraine. A mediator must be neutral. And when we see German tanks and Leopard (battle tanks) on the battlefield, and now we are looking at the fact that the Federal Republic is considering supplying Taurus (missiles) for attacks on Russian territory using not only the equipment itself, but also using Bundeswehr officers... Here, of course, big questions arise. It is well known that if this happens, it will not affect the course of hostilities, that is excluded. But it will spoil our relationship completely. "Therefore, today we consider the Federal Republic, just like many other European countries, not a neutral state, but as a party supporting Ukraine, and in some cases, perhaps, as accomplices in these hostilities. Nevertheless, if we are talking about a desire to talk about this topic, to present some ideas on this subject, I repeat once again, we are always ready for this." © Thomson Reuters 2025.
The Advertiser
13-06-2025
- Politics
- The Advertiser
Calls for restraint as Israel and Iran trade blows
World leaders have reacted to Israel's large-scale strike on Iranian targets, with the UN secretary-general urging both sides to show maximum restraint. BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER: "We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history. "Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI, IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER: "The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country today at dawn with its satanic, bloodstained hands. "That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. By God's grace, the powerful arm of the Islamic Republic's Armed Forces won't let them go unpunished." "With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see." MARCO RUBIO, US SECRETARY OF STATE: "Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel." SPOKESPERSON FOR UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES: "The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran's nuclear programme are underway. "The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford." OMAN, WHICH IS MEDIATING IRAN-US NUCLEAR TALKS: "Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation, representing a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilizes the regional peace and security." "The Sultanate of Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its consequences, and calls upon the international community to adopt a firm and unequivocal stance to halt this dangerous course of action." MARK RUTTE, NATO SECRETARY-GENERAL: "This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate." RAFAEL GROSSI, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY: "I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond. "I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran." FRIEDRICH MERZ, GERMAN CHANCELLOR: "We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region." JEAN-NOEL BARROT, FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER: "We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability. "We have repeatedly expressed our serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself against any attack." LIN JIAN, CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON: "China opposes the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation. "China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation." TURKEY Said Israel's provocation shows it "does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means" and urged it to halt "aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts". KEIR STARMER, UK PRIME MINISTER: "Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy." PENNY WONG, AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions. "We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy." TAKESHI IWAYA, JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks between the United States and Iran, to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, the use of military force is deeply regrettable. "The government strongly condemns this action, which escalates the situation." JAN LIPAVSKY, CZECH FOREIGN MINISTER: "Iran has long failed to meet its obligations to the international community, and is building up its nuclear programme. But at the same time, it has rhetoric that is aimed at destroying the state in Israel. We've seen that twice it has conducted a large-scale state ballistic and drone attack in the last year-and-a-half against Israel along with Hamas and Hezbollah, and it seeks to destroy the state of Israel. "So I have a great deal of understanding for... military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region." SAUDI ARABIA: "Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms." World leaders have reacted to Israel's large-scale strike on Iranian targets, with the UN secretary-general urging both sides to show maximum restraint. BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER: "We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history. "Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI, IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER: "The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country today at dawn with its satanic, bloodstained hands. "That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. By God's grace, the powerful arm of the Islamic Republic's Armed Forces won't let them go unpunished." "With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see." MARCO RUBIO, US SECRETARY OF STATE: "Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel." SPOKESPERSON FOR UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES: "The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran's nuclear programme are underway. "The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford." OMAN, WHICH IS MEDIATING IRAN-US NUCLEAR TALKS: "Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation, representing a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilizes the regional peace and security." "The Sultanate of Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its consequences, and calls upon the international community to adopt a firm and unequivocal stance to halt this dangerous course of action." MARK RUTTE, NATO SECRETARY-GENERAL: "This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate." RAFAEL GROSSI, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY: "I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond. "I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran." FRIEDRICH MERZ, GERMAN CHANCELLOR: "We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region." JEAN-NOEL BARROT, FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER: "We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability. "We have repeatedly expressed our serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself against any attack." LIN JIAN, CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON: "China opposes the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation. "China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation." TURKEY Said Israel's provocation shows it "does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means" and urged it to halt "aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts". KEIR STARMER, UK PRIME MINISTER: "Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy." PENNY WONG, AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions. "We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy." TAKESHI IWAYA, JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks between the United States and Iran, to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, the use of military force is deeply regrettable. "The government strongly condemns this action, which escalates the situation." JAN LIPAVSKY, CZECH FOREIGN MINISTER: "Iran has long failed to meet its obligations to the international community, and is building up its nuclear programme. But at the same time, it has rhetoric that is aimed at destroying the state in Israel. We've seen that twice it has conducted a large-scale state ballistic and drone attack in the last year-and-a-half against Israel along with Hamas and Hezbollah, and it seeks to destroy the state of Israel. "So I have a great deal of understanding for... military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region." SAUDI ARABIA: "Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms." World leaders have reacted to Israel's large-scale strike on Iranian targets, with the UN secretary-general urging both sides to show maximum restraint. BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER: "We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history. "Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI, IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER: "The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country today at dawn with its satanic, bloodstained hands. "That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. By God's grace, the powerful arm of the Islamic Republic's Armed Forces won't let them go unpunished." "With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see." MARCO RUBIO, US SECRETARY OF STATE: "Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel." SPOKESPERSON FOR UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES: "The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran's nuclear programme are underway. "The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford." OMAN, WHICH IS MEDIATING IRAN-US NUCLEAR TALKS: "Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation, representing a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilizes the regional peace and security." "The Sultanate of Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its consequences, and calls upon the international community to adopt a firm and unequivocal stance to halt this dangerous course of action." MARK RUTTE, NATO SECRETARY-GENERAL: "This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate." RAFAEL GROSSI, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY: "I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond. "I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran." FRIEDRICH MERZ, GERMAN CHANCELLOR: "We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region." JEAN-NOEL BARROT, FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER: "We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability. "We have repeatedly expressed our serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself against any attack." LIN JIAN, CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON: "China opposes the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation. "China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation." TURKEY Said Israel's provocation shows it "does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means" and urged it to halt "aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts". KEIR STARMER, UK PRIME MINISTER: "Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy." PENNY WONG, AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions. "We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy." TAKESHI IWAYA, JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks between the United States and Iran, to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, the use of military force is deeply regrettable. "The government strongly condemns this action, which escalates the situation." JAN LIPAVSKY, CZECH FOREIGN MINISTER: "Iran has long failed to meet its obligations to the international community, and is building up its nuclear programme. But at the same time, it has rhetoric that is aimed at destroying the state in Israel. We've seen that twice it has conducted a large-scale state ballistic and drone attack in the last year-and-a-half against Israel along with Hamas and Hezbollah, and it seeks to destroy the state of Israel. "So I have a great deal of understanding for... military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region." SAUDI ARABIA: "Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms." World leaders have reacted to Israel's large-scale strike on Iranian targets, with the UN secretary-general urging both sides to show maximum restraint. BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER: "We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history. "Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI, IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER: "The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country today at dawn with its satanic, bloodstained hands. "That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. By God's grace, the powerful arm of the Islamic Republic's Armed Forces won't let them go unpunished." "With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see." MARCO RUBIO, US SECRETARY OF STATE: "Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel." SPOKESPERSON FOR UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES: "The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran's nuclear programme are underway. "The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford." OMAN, WHICH IS MEDIATING IRAN-US NUCLEAR TALKS: "Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation, representing a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilizes the regional peace and security." "The Sultanate of Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its consequences, and calls upon the international community to adopt a firm and unequivocal stance to halt this dangerous course of action." MARK RUTTE, NATO SECRETARY-GENERAL: "This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate." RAFAEL GROSSI, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY: "I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond. "I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran." FRIEDRICH MERZ, GERMAN CHANCELLOR: "We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region." JEAN-NOEL BARROT, FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER: "We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability. "We have repeatedly expressed our serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself against any attack." LIN JIAN, CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON: "China opposes the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation. "China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation." TURKEY Said Israel's provocation shows it "does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means" and urged it to halt "aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts". KEIR STARMER, UK PRIME MINISTER: "Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy." PENNY WONG, AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions. "We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy." TAKESHI IWAYA, JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks between the United States and Iran, to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, the use of military force is deeply regrettable. "The government strongly condemns this action, which escalates the situation." JAN LIPAVSKY, CZECH FOREIGN MINISTER: "Iran has long failed to meet its obligations to the international community, and is building up its nuclear programme. But at the same time, it has rhetoric that is aimed at destroying the state in Israel. We've seen that twice it has conducted a large-scale state ballistic and drone attack in the last year-and-a-half against Israel along with Hamas and Hezbollah, and it seeks to destroy the state of Israel. "So I have a great deal of understanding for... military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region." SAUDI ARABIA: "Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms."
TimesLIVE
13-06-2025
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
World reacts to Israeli strike on Iran over nuclear activity
Israel launched wide-scale strikes on Iran on Friday. Following is global reaction: BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER: 'We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history. 'Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.' AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI, IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER: 'The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our country today [Friday] at dawn with its satanic, bloodstained hands. 'That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. By God's grace, the powerful arm of the Islamic Republic's armed forces won't let them go unpunished. 'With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see.' MARCO RUBIO, US SECRETARY OF STATE: 'Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our priority is protecting American forces in the region. 'Let me be clear: Iran should not target US interests or personnel.' 'The secretary-general condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the US on the status of Iran's nuclear programme are under way. 'The secretary-general asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation the region can hardly afford.' OMAN, WHICH IS MEDIATING IRAN-US NUCLEAR TALKS: 'Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation, representing a flagrant violation of the UN Charter, the principles of international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilises regional peace and security. 'The Sultanate of Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its consequences and calls upon the international community to adopt a firm and unequivocal stance to halt this dangerous course of action.' MARK RUTTE, NATO SECRETARY-GENERAL: 'This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the US, to work as we speak to de-escalate.' JEAN-NOEL BARROT, FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER: 'We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability. 'We have repeatedly expressed our concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency. We reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself against any attack.' LIN JIAN, CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON: 'China opposes the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation. 'China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation.' TURKEY Said Israel's provocation shows it 'does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means' and urged it to halt 'aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts'. KEIR STARMER, UK PRIME MINISTER: 'Escalation serves no-one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy.' PENNY WONG, AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: 'This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further worsen tensions. 'We 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.' CHRISTOPHER LUXON, NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER: 'It's an unwelcome development in the Middle East. The risk of miscalculation is high. That region does not need any more military action and risk associated with that.' TAKESHI IWAYA, JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER: 'Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks between the US and Iran, to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, the use of military force is deeply regrettable. 'The government strongly condemns this action, which escalates the situation.' JAN LIPAVSKY, CZECH FOREIGN MINISTER: 'I have a great deal of understanding for military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region.' INDONESIA'S FOREIGN MINISTRY: 'Indonesia strongly condemns Israel's attack on Iran. 'The attack risks worsening existing regional tensions and could potentially trigger a broader conflict. All parties must exercise the utmost restraint and avoid any actions that might escalate tensions or cause further instability.' SAUDI ARABIA: 'Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms.'
Perth Now
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Perth Now
Calls for restraint as Israel and Iran trade blows
World leaders have reacted to Israel's large-scale strike on Iranian targets, with the UN secretary-general urging both sides to show maximum restraint. BENJAMIN NETANYAHU, ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER: "We are at a decisive moment in Israel's history. "Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat." AYATOLLAH ALI KHAMENEI, IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER: "The Zionist regime has committed a crime in our dear country today at dawn with its satanic, bloodstained hands. "That regime should anticipate a severe punishment. By God's grace, the powerful arm of the Islamic Republic's Armed Forces won't let them go unpunished." "With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see." MARCO RUBIO, US SECRETARY OF STATE: "Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region. "Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel." SPOKESPERSON FOR UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES: "The Secretary-General condemns any military escalation in the Middle East. He is particularly concerned by Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran's nuclear programme are underway. "The Secretary-General asks both sides to show maximum restraint, avoiding at all costs a descent into deeper conflict, a situation that the region can hardly afford." OMAN, WHICH IS MEDIATING IRAN-US NUCLEAR TALKS: "Oman considers this act a dangerous, reckless escalation, representing a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law. Such aggressive, persistent behaviour is unacceptable and further destabilizes the regional peace and security." "The Sultanate of Oman holds Israel responsible for this escalation and its consequences, and calls upon the international community to adopt a firm and unequivocal stance to halt this dangerous course of action." MARK RUTTE, NATO SECRETARY-GENERAL: "This was a unilateral action by Israel. So I think it is crucial for many allies, including the United States, to work as we speak to de-escalate." RAFAEL GROSSI, HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY: "I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardises the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond. "I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran." FRIEDRICH MERZ, GERMAN CHANCELLOR: "We call on both sides to refrain from steps that could lead to further escalation and destabilise the entire region." JEAN-NOEL BARROT, FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER: "We call on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any escalation that could compromise regional stability. "We have repeatedly expressed our serious concerns regarding Iran's nuclear programme, notably in the resolution recently adopted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself against any attack." LIN JIAN, CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON: "China opposes the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, opposes the intensification of contradictions, the expansion of conflicts, and the sudden rise in temperature of the regional situation. "China calls on all parties concerned to do more things that promote regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of the tense situation. China is willing to play a constructive role in easing the situation." TURKEY Said Israel's provocation shows it "does not want issues to be resolved through diplomatic means" and urged it to halt "aggressive actions that could lead to greater conflicts". KEIR STARMER, UK PRIME MINISTER: "Escalation serves no one in the region. Stability in the Middle East must be the priority and we are engaging partners to de-escalate. Now is the time for restraint, calm and a return to diplomacy." PENNY WONG, AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "This risks further destabilising a region that is already volatile. We call on all parties to refrain from actions and rhetoric that will further exacerbate tensions. "We all understand the threat of Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile program represents a threat to international peace and security, and we urge the parties to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy." TAKESHI IWAYA, JAPAN FOREIGN MINISTER: "Amid ongoing diplomatic efforts, including talks between the United States and Iran, to achieve a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, the use of military force is deeply regrettable. "The government strongly condemns this action, which escalates the situation." JAN LIPAVSKY, CZECH FOREIGN MINISTER: "Iran has long failed to meet its obligations to the international community, and is building up its nuclear programme. But at the same time, it has rhetoric that is aimed at destroying the state in Israel. We've seen that twice it has conducted a large-scale state ballistic and drone attack in the last year-and-a-half against Israel along with Hamas and Hezbollah, and it seeks to destroy the state of Israel. "So I have a great deal of understanding for... military action to deter the production of a nuclear bomb in the region." SAUDI ARABIA: "Saudi Arabia expresses its strong condemnation and denunciation of the blatant Israeli aggressions against the brotherly Islamic Republic of Iran, which undermine its sovereignty and security and constitute a clear violation of international laws and norms."
