World leaders react to 'Operation Epic Fury' US - Israel military strikes across Iran

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A plume of smoke rises following a reported explosion in Tehran on February 28, 2026. Iran said on February 28 it will "respond decisively" after Israel and the United States launched strikes on the country despite talks underway on Tehran's nuclear

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Following the news that Operation "Roaring Lion", a joint American-Israeli strike targeting military sites inside Iran, world leaders reacted to the operation with some backing the attack on Iran and others warning the attacks pose a risk to a wider regional war. 

British prime minister Keir Starmer delivers statement on 'Operation Epic Fury' 

UK's Keir Starmer reacts to strikes on Iran

UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer reacts after the U.S. and Israel struck Iran overnight. 

Britain, France and Germany issue joint statement on 'Operation Epic Fury'

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in a joint statement their countries didn’t take part in the strikes on Iran but are in close contact with the U.S., Israel and partners in the region.

The three countries have led efforts to reach a negotiated solution over Iran’s nuclear program and said they had "consistently urged the Iranian regime to end Iran’s nuclear program, curb its ballistic missile program, refrain from its destabilizing activity in the region and our homelands, and to cease the appalling violence and repression against its own people… We condemn Iranian attacks on countries in the region in the strongest terms. Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We call for a resumption of negotiations and urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution. Ultimately, the Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future."

Canada's statement on 'Operation Epic Fury'

In a joint statement, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Minister Anita Anand voiced firm support saying, "Canada supports the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and to prevent its regime from further threatening international peace and security." The statement described Iran as "the principal source of instability and terror throughout the Middle East" and stressed it "must never be allowed to obtain or develop nuclear weapons."

Australia's statement on 'Operation Epic Fury'

The Australian Prime Minister endorsed the military action in a lengthy statement on X, "Australia stands with the brave people of Iran in their struggle against oppression." He confirmed Australia supports "the United States acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon," while activating emergency consular measures and urging Australians to leave Iran if safe.

Spain's statement on 'Operation Epic Fury'

In a statement on X, Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said, "We reject the unilateral military action by the United States and Israel, which represents an escalation and contributes to a more uncertain and hostile international order."

Saudi Arabia’s statement on 'Operation Epic Fury' 

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said, "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns and denounces in strongest terms the blatant Iranian aggression and the flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan." It affirmed "its full solidarity with and unwavering support for the brotherly countries" and warned of "grave consequences resulting from the continued violation of states’ sovereignty and the principles of international law."

The United Arab Emirates’ statement on 'Operation Epic Fury'

The United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Defense said the country "was subjected to a blatant attack involving Iranian ballistic missiles," adding that air defense systems "successfully intercepted a number of missiles." Authorities said falling debris in a residential area caused "one civilian death of an asian nationality" and material damage.

The ministry called the attack "a dangerous escalation and a cowardly act that threatens the safety of civilians and undermines stability," and stated the UAE "reserves its full right to respond."

Pakistan's statement on 'Operation Epic Fury'

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar "strongly condemned the unwarranted attacks against Iran" and called for "urgent resumption of diplomacy."