US-Israel-Iran Escalation: China, Russia, EU, AU, UN react

2026-03-01 05:32:46

The ongoing military escalation involving the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran has elicited reactions from the governments of China and Russia, as well as from international organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, and the European Union.

These governments and organizations issued separate statements on Saturday in accordance with their respective foreign policies and worldviews.

Nairametrics previously reported that the war recently initiated by Israel, and subsequently joined by the US, borders on efforts to dismantle Iran’s alleged nuclear weapons program.

Israel shuts schools, bans gatherings amid Iranian missile threat

March 1, 2026

Israeli strike hits Girls’ School in Southern Iran, dozens feared dead

February 28, 2026

What They Said

In a statement issued by the Russian Foreign Ministry regarding what it called the “military aggression of the United States and Israel against Iran,” it claimed that “this reckless step” is an unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state, Iran.

Russia maintained that this development occurs despite assurances conveyed to the Russian side indicating that Israel had no interest in engaging in military confrontation with Iran.

Russia urged the international community, including the UN leadership, to urgently provide an objective and unbiased assessment of these actions.
It alleged that the goal is “to dismantle the constitutional order and remove the leadership of a state they deem undesirable because it has refused to yield to the dictates of force and hegemonic pressure.”

Russia warned that by plunging the Middle East into “the abyss of uncontrolled escalation,” the US and Israel are effectively prompting countries worldwide — and especially in the Middle East — to pursue even more severe measures to counter emerging threats.

“We call for an immediate return to a political and diplomatic track. Russia, as always, stands ready to assist in advancing peaceful solutions based on international law, mutual respect, and a balanced consideration of interests,”_ the Russian ministry stated.

For its part, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that China is “highly concerned” about the military strikes against Iran launched by the US and Israel.

“Iran’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity should be respected,” the statement partly read.

China called for an immediate halt to military actions, no further escalation of the tense situation, the resumption of dialogue and negotiations, and efforts to uphold and maintain peace and stability in the Middle East.

Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, issued a joint statement, saying that the developments in Iran are deeply concerning, but the Council remains in close contact with regional partners.

Costa highlighted that ensuring nuclear safety and preventing actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime are of critical importance.

“The European Union has adopted extensive sanctions in response to the actions of Iran’s regime and the Revolutionary Guards and has consistently promoted diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the nuclear and ballistic programs through negotiated solutions,” the statement partly read.

The official added that, in close coordination with EU member states, all parties should exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and fully respect international law.

Commenting on the situation, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that the use of force by the United States and Israel against Iran, and Iran’s subsequent retaliations across the region, undermine international peace and security.

He condemned the military escalation in the Middle East.

In a press statement on what he termed “US-Iran Military Escalation,” the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, highlighted that the reported military strikes carried out against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran mark a serious escalation of hostilities in the Middle East.

The Chairperson called for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue, stressing that all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.

He warned that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability, with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience — particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.

Meanwhile, Reuters reports that the UN Security Council will convene on Saturday over the new conflict.

The meeting will be chaired by Britain, which holds the monthly presidency of the Council.

More Insights

The UN Security Council is the highest decision-making body of the international organization responsible for maintaining international peace and security.

China and Russia are permanent members of the Council alongside the US.
Over the years, their foreign policies have often sharply contrasted with that of the United States.
With veto power, either country can block any majority vote that opposes its foreign policy interests.

Additionally, Russia and China are regarded as major economic and military powers whose perspectives influence international politics.

Backstory

The situation stems from a sharp escalation in regional tensions after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, targeting key sites.

Iran retaliated with a missile barrage, prompting several countries to close or restrict their airspace as a precaution.
Countries including Israel, Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan announced full or partial airspace closures.

The Middle East is one of the world’s busiest corridors for aviation, tourism, and investment, connecting Europe and Asia through hubs such as Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.

Add Nairametrics on Google News

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.