Global Leaders React to U.S.-Israel Strike on Iran

The article discusses the international reactions to the military strike by the United States and Israel against Iran, which was triggered by the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, confirmed by Iranian state media on February 28, 2026. Khamenei, aged 86, had led the Islamic Republic for three decades, and his death has created a leadership vacuum in Tehran's theocratic hierarchy.

The strike follows escalating tensions over Iran's nuclear program and its support for proxy groups in the region. U.N.

Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the strike, calling it a violation of international law and warning of humanitarian consequences. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the action aimed to confront Iran's government and prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons.

French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders urged for de-escalation and negotiations, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed support for the U.S. actions. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Khamenei's killing and criticized the U.S.-Israeli strike, warning of the risks of regional conflict.