The African Union has expressed deep concern over military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israel against targets inside Iran, describing the action as a serious escalation in the Middle East.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf, called for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue. He stressed that all parties must act in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard global peace and security.

Youssouf warned that further escalation could worsen global instability, with significant consequences for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience, particularly in Africa. He urged diplomatic engagement, including mediation efforts facilitated by Oman, emphasising that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, not force.

Reacting separately, the President of the European Council, António Costa, described the developments as greatly concerning and reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to regional stability.

Costa stressed the importance of nuclear safety and preventing further escalation that could undermine the global non-proliferation regime. He noted that the EU had imposed sanctions in response to actions by Iran’s government and the Revolutionary Guards while continuing to promote diplomatic solutions to the nuclear and ballistic programmes.

The reactions followed a wave of strikes on Iranian cities, including Tehran, with US President Donald Trump stating that Washington aimed to eliminate imminent threats. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the operation as a preventive strike.

Both the AU and EU called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and uphold international law to prevent a broader regional conflict.