Early this morning, Israel announced that it had carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, in order to prevent Tehran from developing atomic weapons, reported "Reuters", reports News.bg.
According to Iranian media, explosions were recorded, including at the main uranium enrichment facility in the country.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as "a decisive moment in Israel's history" and said that the country was also targeting Iranian scientists working on nuclear bomb and missile programs. He added that the operation would last several days.
Iran, for its part, reiterated that its nuclear program serves only peaceful purposes. Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory strikes with missiles and drones from Iran.
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State:
„Israel has taken unilateral action against Iran. The US is not participating in the strikes. Our priority is to protect US forces in the region. Iran must not attack US interests or personnel.“
Penny Wong, Australian Foreign Minister:
„We are concerned about the escalation. This carries a risk of destabilization in the region. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and dialogue. The threat from Iran's nuclear and missile programs is serious, but the solution must be diplomatic.“
Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand:
„This is an unwanted development. The region does not need new military action. The risk of miscalculation is too high.“
Yoshimasa Hayashi, Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan:
„Japan is using all diplomatic means to prevent further escalation and is making efforts to protect its citizens.“
Spoken for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:
„The Secretary-General is particularly concerned about the Israeli attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran. He calls on both sides to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further escalation, which the region can hardly bear.“
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Oman:
“Oman condemns the strike as a dangerous and reckless escalation, in violation of the UN Charter. Israel bears full responsibility for the consequences of this action. We call on the international community to take firm action to stop this aggression.“