Netanyahu Says Iran Threat Was 'Imminent'; Khamenei Warns of 'Severe Punishment'

Trump Again Urges Iran to Reach Nuclear Deal With US, Warning Israel's Attacks 'Will Only Get Worse'

- MPOST BUREAU

NEW DELHI: Israel's strikes on nuclear facilities in Iran have drawn strong condemnation from several countries. Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, China, Russia, and the European Union joined in criticizing the Israeli offensive, warning it risked triggering broader instability. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for "maximum restraint" to avoid "descent into deeper conflict".

DUBAI: Israel attacked Iran early Friday in strikes that took out top military officers and hit nuclear and missile sites, raising the potential for an all-out war between the two bitter Middle East adversaries. It appeared to be the most significant attack Iran has faced since its 1980s war with Iraq.

Simmering tensions over Iran's rapidly advancing nuclear program boiled over and Iran quickly retaliated, sending a swarm of drones at Israel as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of "severe punishment".

Countries in the region condemned Israel's attack, while leaders around the globe called for immediate de-escalation from both sides.