Reactions to Israel’s strikes against Iran

(Reuters) – Following are reactions to Israel’s strikes against Iran on Saturday:

SENIOR BIDEN ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL

Said Israel’s strikes on military sites in Iran appear to have been a targeted and proportional response to Tehran’s earlier attacks, with low risk of civilian harm.

The official said this should be the end of direct exchange of fire between the two countries, adding that the U.S. has multiple direct and indirect channels of communication with Iran where it has made its position clear.

“Should Iran choose to respond we are fully prepared to defend Israel and support Israel and there will be consequences should Iran make that unfortunate decision,” said the official. “But as far as we’re concerned, this direct exchange, this should be the end of it.”

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER KEIR STARMER

“I am clear that Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian aggression. I’m equally clear that we need to avoid further regional escalation and urge all sides to show restraint. Iran should not respond.”

SAUDI ARABIA STATEMENT PUBLISHED BY OFFICIAL STATE NEWS AGENCY

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its condemnation and denunciation of the military targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which is a violation of its sovereignty and a violation of international laws and norms.

The Kingdom affirms its unwavering position in its rejection of the continued escalation in the region and the expansion of the conflict that threatens the security and stability of the countries and people of the region.

The Kingdom urges all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and reduce escalation.”

(Reporting by Reuters bureaus; Editing by Frances Kerry)