…As Gulf States, Nigeria, Pope demand restraint
A major military confrontation has erupted in the Middle-East after the United States (U.S) and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran, triggering retaliatory missile attacks across the Gulf and drawing urgent appeals for restraint from world leaders, including Pope Leo XIV.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Saturday that American forces were engaged in a “major combat operation” aimed at eliminating what he described as imminent threats from the Iranian regime. The offensive, reportedly months in planning, was carried out in coordination with Israeli forces.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strikes were designed to remove what he termed an “existential threat” posed by Iran’s missile and naval capabilities, adding that the action could open the door for Iranians to “take control of their own future”.
Tehran swiftly condemned the attacks as illegal and in violation of the UN Charter. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi described the operation as “wholly unprovoked, illegal and illegitimate,” accusing Trump of putting “Israel First” over American interests.
Iran responded with missile strikes targeting U.S. military installations across the Gulf, including bases in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. A missile reportedly struck the headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, while several projectiles aimed at the UAE were intercepted by air defense systems.
A senior Iranian official declared that all American and Israeli assets in the region were now considered legitimate targets, warning that “there are no red lines after this aggression”.
The conflict has already claimed lives on both sides. Three American service members were confirmed killed in the operation. Reports indicate that civilian casualties in Iran have climbed sharply, with dozens of schoolchildren among the dead after a strike hit an elementary school. The broader civilian death toll is estimated at up to 150.
In a forceful statement, Pope Leo XIV condemned the escalation, warning that peace cannot be achieved through weapons or mutual threats.
“Stability and peace are not achieved through mutual threats, nor through the use of weapons, which sow destruction, suffering, and death, but only through sincere and responsible dialogue,” the pontiff wrote, urging all sides to halt the “spiral of violence before it becomes an unbridgeable chasm”.
The Vatican’s criticism adds to mounting global concern over the rapidly expanding crisis.
European leaders also expressed deep alarm. European Commission (EU) President, Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa called the situation “greatly concerning” and urged maximum restraint and respect for international law. French President Emmanuel Macron pushed for an emergency UN Security Council meeting, warning of “serious consequences” for global peace.
Norway questioned the legality of Israel’s initial strike, arguing that preventive attacks are only justified under clear and immediate threat. Belgium said ordinary Iranians should not suffer for their government’s decisions.
Nigeria joined international voices urging restraint. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for immediate de-escalation and strict adherence to the UN Charter and Geneva Conventions. Its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa emphasized Nigeria’s longstanding foreign policy principles of non-alignment and multilateral engagement, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue over confrontation to prevent further civilian casualties and regional instability.
In Washington, Trump’s decision to strike without seeking prior congressional authorization has ignited a constitutional debate. Senators are pushing for an urgent vote on a War Powers Resolution to curb the military campaign. “This is a colossal mistake”, Kaine said, warning against another prolonged Middle-East conflict.
However, Republican leaders rallied behind the president. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Iran was facing the consequences of its actions, while Senator Lindsey Graham praised Trump’s “determination”.
Even if Congress passes a resolution, it is widely expected that Trump would veto it, setting up a symbolic but politically charged confrontation over war powers.
The unfolding confrontation has sparked fears of a wider regional war, particularly as Gulf nations hosting US bases now find themselves directly caught in the crossfire. With Iran vowing retaliation and Washington and Tel Aviv standing by their actions, diplomatic efforts face mounting pressure to prevent further escalation.
