Diplomacy needed to avoid.'catastrophic consequences'

From Iraq to New Zealand, here's how world leaders reacted to the US directly joining Israel's military assault on Iran

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US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites have ignited fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East, prompting urgent calls for deescalation from key American allies.

These nations, while acknowledging the threat posed by Tehran's nuclear programme, have urged a swift return to the negotiating table. Conversely, several regional nations and groups aligned with Iran condemned the strikes, though they too appealed for a reduction in hostilities.

The swift action followed a statement by US president Donald Trump just days prior, who had indicated on Thursday that he would decide within two weeks whether to involve the US in Israel's ongoing conflict with Tehran. Washington launched attacks on three Iranian nuclear facilities early on Sunday.

The full extent of the damage inflicted by the strikes remains unconfirmed, with Iran asserting its right to "resist with full force".

The escalation has led to speculation among analysts regarding Iran's potential next steps, with questions raised over whether a weakened Tehran would capitulate or instead choose to remain defiant, potentially directing its allies to target US interests across the Gulf region.

Here is a look at reactions from governments and officials around the world.

United Nations

UN secretary general Antonio Guterres said he was "gravely alarmed" by the use of force by the United States.

"There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world," he said in a statement on the social media platform X. “I call on member states to de-escalate. There is no military solution. The only path forward is diplomacy."

United Kingdom