The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission has voiced deep concern following reports of an Israeli airstrike on Iranian territory, warning that the spiraling tensions in the Middle East pose a significant danger to global peace and security.
In a statement issued from AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, the Chairperson condemned the rising hostilities and called for an immediate halt to all acts of aggression. He urged both parties to exercise maximum restraint and to prioritize diplomacy over confrontation.
“The current developments risk igniting a broader conflict with dire consequences not only for the region but for international stability,” the AU Chairperson stated.
The African Union, which has consistently championed dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes, reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to diplomacy as the path forward.
Notably, both Israel and Iran currently hold observer status within the African Union, though Israel’s status has faced periodic suspension and pushback from several member states. This dual presence underscores Africa’s complex diplomatic ties with the region and the AU’s potential role as a neutral advocate for peace.
The AU has called upon the international community to engage constructively and prevent further escalation, emphasizing that a return to dialogue is essential to avoid humanitarian catastrophe and economic fallout.
As conflict looms over the Middle East, the African Union stands firm in its position: no conflict is beyond resolution through peaceful means.