NPR News | Sunday, June 22, 2025 
World reacts to U.S. strikes on Iran with alarm, caution — and some praise

As the world reacted to news of U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, international officials largely responded with alarm and calls for restraint — though some expressed praise. Across the Middle East, reactions ranged from concern to condemnation. The Saudi government said it was following events “with great concern,” and called for urgent diplomacy. The governments of Iraq and Qatar both warned the strikes risked destabilizing an already volatile region. Pakistan also issued a statement condemning the strike and warning of “severely damaging implications” for the broader region. Among Iran’s allies and regional proxies, the reaction was more forceful. Yemen’s Houthi movement described the strikes as a “cowardly” U.S. act done in support of “the Zionist entity.” The group vowed continued resistance, saying the attack would only strengthen Iran’s commitment to its regional alliances. Hamas, the Palestinian militant group which led the Oct. 7, 2023, deadly assault against Israel — and which has received arms and support from Iran — said it condemned the “blatant U.S. aggression” against Iran as a “direct threat to international peace and security.” – Read more