Leaders around the world responded to Operation Roaring Lion with a mix of support, concern, and calls for restraint as fears of a broader regional conflict mounted.
In the United Kingdom, the government said it was not involved in the strikes on Iran. In a statement, British officials reiterated their long-standing position that Iran must never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, while urging all sides to return to diplomacy. “We do not want to see further escalation that will lead to a wider regional conflict," the statement read, adding that the immediate priority is the safety of British citizens in the region and continued support for a negotiated solution.
In Germany, a government spokesperson confirmed that Berlin had been informed in advance by Israel about the strikes. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he was closely monitoring developments and coordinating with European partners.
French President Emmanuel Macron said France stood ready to assist Gulf states amid the escalating crisis. France maintains a military presence in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Jordan. Macron warned that the escalating confrontation posed grave risks to international peace and security and said the violence must stop. He also criticized Iran’s leadership, saying its actions had disqualified it from continuing in power and that the Iranian people should be able to determine their own future.
From the European Union, officials said leaders were coordinating closely with Arab partners to explore diplomatic avenues and prevent further escalation. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs, along with its support for militant groups, posed a serious threat to global security.
Meanwhile, Russia, Pakistan, and Malaysia condemned the U.S. and Israeli strikes and called for restraint.
In Lebanon, political leaders urged prioritizing the welfare of the Iranian people, a message widely seen as directed at Hezbollah amid concerns the group could enter the conflict by attacking Israel.
Across the Gulf, several governments condemned Iranian attacks on their territories. Saudi Arabia denounced Iran’s actions against Bahrain and other states as a “blatant violation" of national sovereignty, expressing full solidarity and pledging support to affected nations in any steps they choose to take.