As tensions escalate in the Middle East following Iranian threats against Israel, Russia, Germany, and Britain have issued calls for restraint, emphasising the need to avoid further escalation in the region.
The German airline Lufthansa, one of the few Western carriers with flights to Tehran, announced an extension of its suspension of flights to the Iranian capital, citing security concerns. Russia also cautioned against travel to the Middle East, heightening concerns over the volatile situation.
The recent airstrike on Iran’s embassy compound in Damascus, which resulted in the death of a top Iranian general and six other military officers, has further strained relations in the region. While Israel has not claimed responsibility for the attack, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation on the attack as he said Israel “must be punished and it shall be”, saying the airstrike was an attack on Iranian soil.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasised Israel’s commitment to defending its security interests as he said, “Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared to meet all of the security needs of the State of Israel, both defensively and offensively.”
Meanwhile, Iran has signalled to Washington its intention to respond to the attack in a manner aimed at preventing a major escalation.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant reiterated Israel’s readiness to directly respond to any Iranian aggression, underscoring the potential for further conflict in the region. Amidst growing tensions, Iran-backed groups have declared support for Palestinians, leading to attacks from various fronts, including Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock urged Iran to exercise “maximum restraint” to prevent further escalation, while Russia emphasised the importance of maintaining stability in the region.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighted the need for all parties to refrain from actions that could fuel the situation, saying, “Right now it’s very important for everyone to maintain restraint so as not to lead to a complete destabilisation of the situation in the region, which doesn’t exactly shine with stability and predictability.”
As the situation remains tense, diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further escalation and promote dialogue between the involved parties.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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