Qatar, Jordan, UAE, and Saudi Arabia Condemn Israeli Airstrikes on Iran

Gulf Nations Condemn Israeli Airstrikes on Iran Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Doha: Qatar, along with Jordan, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, collectively condemned Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory, citing serious concerns about the implications for regional security and stability. This condemnation followed Israeli airstrikes on multiple Iranian targets, with regional leaders warning against an escalation that could worsen tensions across the Middle East.

The foreign ministry of Qatar released a forceful statement condemning Israel’s activities as a blatant transgression of international law and Iran’s sovereignty. Qatar called on all parties to refrain from acts that would further destabilise the area, seek diplomatic solutions, and display restraint. In light of the ongoing crises in Gaza and Lebanon, Qatar also urged the international community to step up efforts to lower tensions and lessen the suffering of those impacted by the intensifying conflict.

Jordan’s Position Against International Law Violations and Escalation

Israel’s actions were denounced by Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a clear breach of international law. The ministry’s spokeswoman, Ambassador Sufian Al-Qudah, emphasised Jordan’s steadfast opposition to any measures that would destabilise the area and called on the international community to act swiftly to stop Israel’s aggressive actions in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. The envoy warned that a protracted conflict might have a significant impact on regional stability and peace and emphasised that unchecked escalation poses a serious threat to both regional and global security.

UAE Emphasizes Diplomacy and Regional Stability The UAE, while joining Qatar, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia in condemning the attacks, emphasized the importance of de-escalation through diplomatic means and adherence to international law. In a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, prioritize wisdom, and avoid actions that risk further conflict. The UAE’s stance focused on dialogue, legal respect, and state sovereignty as essential foundations for resolving the ongoing crisis, underscoring that restraint is critical in preventing broader regional fallout.

Saudi Arabia Urges Caution and International Intervention

Saudi Arabia also issued a firm statement condemning Israel’s airstrikes, labeling them a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a breach of international norms. Emphasizing its long-held position against regional escalation, Saudi Arabia called for the utmost restraint from all sides and encouraged influential parties within the international community to actively work to reduce tensions. The Kingdom highlighted the risks of ongoing military conflict, urging intervention to stabilize the situation and avoid the consequences of prolonged confrontations that threaten regional peace.

Israel Responds to Perceived Threats from Iran

In contrast, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) defended the airstrikes as necessary, describing them as “precise and targeted” actions against immediate threats. IDF spokesperson Brigadier General Daniel Hagar confirmed that the airstrikes were carried out in three waves with the Israeli Air Force, responding to an October 1 ballistic missile attack originating from Iranian targets. Hagar affirmed Israel’s readiness to protect its citizens and maintain a stance of strength, vowing that any force seeking to escalate tensions with Israel would “pay a heavy price.”