U.S. and European leaders reiterated their support for Israel in the aftermath of Iran’s massive missile barrage on Oct. 1, 2024. Several world leaders warned that the Middle East was on the brink and called for diplomatic solutions to both the war in Gaza and the Israel-Hezbollah conflict as well as a de-escalation in tensions between Israel and Iran. China stopped short of criticizing Iran and contended that the protracted fighting in Gaza was the "root cause" of the latest round of turmoil in the region.
U.S. officials lauded U.S. forces for helping their Israeli partners to intercept the majority of some 180 projectiles. The attack “appears to have been defeated and ineffective, and this is testament to Israeli military capability and U.S. military,” President Joe Biden said.
A day later, Biden held a conference call with the leaders of the other G7 countries – Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan – to coordinate an international response to Iran’s attack. Biden told reporters that he opposed a potential Israeli strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. “We’ll be discussing with the Israelis what they’re going to do, but all seven of us agree that they have a right to respond but they should respond proportionally.”
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan warned that Washington would work with Jerusalem on imposing “severe consequences” for Tehran but did not elaborate.
U.S. forces played a relatively minor role in defending Israel. U.S. Navy destroyers fired approximately a dozen interceptors at incoming ballistic missiles, according to the Pentagon. When Iran last attacked Israel on April 13-14, U.S. warplanes and sea-based air defense systems destroyed more than 80 of the 170 suicide drones and at least six of the 120 ballistic missiles. The following are reactions by world leaders to Iran’s attack.
United States
President Joe Biden
Oct. 2, 2024: "Obviously, Iran is way off course... There are going to be some sanctions imposed on Iran."
“We’ll be discussing with the Israelis what they’re going to do, but all seven of us (the G7 countries) agree that they have a right to respond but they should respond proportionally.”
Oct. 1, 2024: “At my direction, the United States military actively supported the defense of Israel, and we’re still assessing the impact. But based on what we know now, the attack appears to have been defeated and ineffective, and this is testament to Israeli military capability and U.S. military.
“It’s also a testament to intensive planning between the United States and Israel to anticipate and defend against the brazen attack we expected. Make no mistake, the United States is fully, fully, fully supportive of Israel.”
Vice President Kamala Harris
Oct. 1, 2024: “So, today, Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles at Israel in a reckless and brazen attack. I condemn this attack unequivocally. I am clear-eyed: Iran is a destabilizing, dangerous force in the Middle East, and today’s attack on Israel only further demonstrates that fact.
“Earlier today, I was in the Situation Room with President Biden and our national security team as we monitored the attack in real time and ensured that the protection of U.S. personnel in the region is paramount. I fully support President Biden’s order for the U.S. military to shoot down Iranian missiles targeting Israel, just as we did in April.
We are still assessing the impact, but initial indications are that Israel, with our assistance, was able to defeat this attack. Our joint defenses have been effective, and this operation and successful cooperation saved many innocent lives.
“As I have said, I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself against Iran and Iran-backed terrorist militias. My commitment to the security of Israel is unwavering.
“And let us be clear: Iran is not only a threat to Israel; Iran is also a threat to American personnel in the region, American interests, and innocent civilians across the region who suffer at the hands of Iran-based and -backed terrorist proxies.
“We will never hesitate to take whatever action is necessary to defend U.S. forces and interests against Iran and Iran-backed terrorists. And we will continue to work with our allies and partners to disrupt Iran’s aggressive behavior and hold them accountable.”
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan
Oct. 1, 2024: “Today, Iran launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles towards targets in Israel. The United States military coordinated closely with the Israeli Defense Forces to help defend Israel against this attack. U.S. naval destroyers joined Israeli air defense units in firing interceptors to shoot down inbound missiles.
“President Biden and Vice President Harris monitored the attack and the response from the White House Situation Room, joined in person and remotely by their national security team.
“We are still working with the IDF and the authorities in Israel to assess the impact of the attack, but at this time — and I stress “at this time” — we do not know of any deaths in Israel. We are tracking the reported death of a Palestinian civilian in Jericho in the West Bank. We do not know of any damage to aircraft or strategic military assets in Israel.
“In short, based on what we know at this point, this attack appears to have been defeated and ineffective. This was first and foremost the result of the professionalism of the IDF, but in no small part because of the skilled work of the U.S. military and meticulous joint planning in anticipation of the attack.”
“We will consult with the Israelis on next steps in terms of the response and how to deal with what Iran has just done, and we will continue to monitor for further threats and attacks from Iran and its proxies. We are particularly focused on protecting U.S. servicemembers in the region.”
“We have made clear that there will be consequences — severe consequences — for this attack, and we will work with Israel to make that the case.”
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
Oct. 1, 2024: “Today, U.S. forces in the Middle East intercepted multiple missiles launched by Iran toward Israel, as we fulfilled our commitment to partner with Israel in its defense. We condemn this outrageous act of aggression by Iran, and we call on Iran to halt any further attacks, including from its proxy terrorist groups. We will never hesitate to protect our forces and interests in the Middle East, and to support the defense of Israel and our partners in the region.
“I am deeply proud of the skill and the bravery of the U.S. troops who helped to save lives today from Iran's assault and who continue to support Israel's defense and to prevent a widening conflict or escalation. Our forces remain postured to protect U.S. troops and partners in the Middle East, and the Department maintains significant capability to defend our people, provide further support for Israel's self-defense, and deter further escalation. I will continue to monitor the situation closely and to consult with our allies and partners.”
I spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant today following today’s outrageous act of aggression by Iran against Israel. The Minister and I expressed mutual appreciation for the coordinated defense of Israel against nearly 200 ballistic missiles launched by Iran and…
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) October 2, 2024
Secretary of State Antony Blinken
Oct. 1, 2024: “A few hours ago, Iran – for the second time in a space of five months – launched a direct attack on Israel, including some 200 ballistic missiles. This is totally unacceptable, and the entire world should condemn it.
“Initial reports suggest that Israel, with the active support of the United States and other partners, effectively defeated this attack. We have demonstrated, once again, our commitment to Israel’s defense. We’ll remain in very close touch with Israel and other partners in the region in the hours and days ahead.”
Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield
Oct. 2, 2024: “Colleagues, yesterday, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the IRGC, launched nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. Tragically, there has been a confirmed death of a Palestinian civilian in the West Bank.
“Iran’s stated intention was to avenge the deaths of two IRGC-supported terrorist leaders, and an IRGC commander, by inflicting significant damage and death in Israel.
Thankfully, and through close coordination between the United States and Israel, Iran failed to achieve its objectives.
“This outcome does not diminish the fact that this attack, intended to cause significant death and destruction, marked a significant escalation by Iran. It does not negate the need for immediate Council action. This is a moment for this Council to speak out – with one voice – and condemn Iran for its unprovoked attack against another Member State. And equally important, to impose serious consequences on the IRGC for its actions.
“Colleagues, in a broad sense, Iran was complicit in the October 7 attacks on Israel –through its funding, training, capabilities, and support for the military wing of Hamas.
And after Hamas’ horrific attack, carried out nearly a year ago today, the United States sent a clear message to Iran: Don’t exploit the situation in ways that would risk propelling the region into a broader war. The IRGC flagrantly and repeatedly ignored this warning.
“By encouraging and enabling the Houthis in Yemen to disrupt global shipping and launch attacks against Israel. By supporting militant groups in Syria and Iraq, which repeatedly attacked American forces engaged in the fight against ISIS. And by arming and encouraging Hizballah after its former leader, Nasrallah, made the decision on October 7th to open a “northern front” against Israel.
“There can be no doubt: Iranian support to regional proxies has directly contributed to the crises in Gaza and Lebanon.
“At the center of Iran’s efforts since October 7th to sow chaos and threaten regional stability is the IRGC, which has repeatedly flouted and violated this Council’s resolutions.
“I can’t believe I have to say this, but I will, because the IRGC and its allies are out. They’re peddling propaganda. The decision to launch nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel was not in any way defensive. The IRGC was not protecting Iran from threats from another Member State.
“Instead, the IRGC was acting in solidarity with Hizballah after the killing of Nasrallah – who led a terrorist group that has the blood of thousands of Americans, Lebanese, and Israelis on its hands.
“I can think of no starker example of state support of terrorism than launching ballistic missiles to avenge the death of a terrorist leader. It is indefensible and it is unacceptable. And we have a collective responsibility, as members of the Security Council, to impose additional sanctions on the IRGC for supporting terrorism, and for flouting so many of this Council’s resolutions.
“If this Council sits on its hands, what message will that send? I fear that silence and inaction will only invite the IRGC to repeat attacks like what we saw yesterday, and on April 13th of this year, again and again and again. Colleagues, we meet at a moment when there is a heightened risk of countries in the region being dragged into a broader conflict.”
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder
Oct. 1, 2024: “We condemn these reckless attacks by Iran, and we call on Iran to halt any further attacks, including from its proxy forces. During the attack, the US military coordinated closely with the Israeli Defense Forces to help defend Israel. US Navy destroyers deployed to the Middle East region supported the defense of Israel by firing approximately a dozen interceptors against the incoming Iranian missiles.
“Initial reports indicate that Israel was able to intercept the majority of incoming missiles and that there was minimal damage on the ground, but I’d refer you to Israel for confirmation and any questions on that, as they’re in a better position to discuss. Please note that we’re still assessing the attack and the outcome, so numbers may change as we receive updates.
“Additionally, no US personnel were injured or harmed during the Iranian missile attack. Secretary Austin, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General CQ Brown Jr. and US Central Command, Commander, General Eric Kurilla have been in constant contact with President Biden and Vice President Harris throughout the day to consult on the situation and US actions.
“In addition to his phone call earlier this morning with Israeli Minister of Defense Gallant prior to the Iranian attack, Secretary Austin spoke to the minister again just a short while ago to get an update. He reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of Israel and underscored that the US remains well postured throughout the Middle East region to protect US forces and defend Israel in the face of threats from Iran and Iran backed terrorist organizations.
“We’ll provide a readout of that call as soon as possible. To be crystal clear, as Secretary Austin has said, should Iran, its partners or its proxies use this moment to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take every necessary measure to defend our people.”
Britain
Prime Minister Keir Starmer
Oct. 1, 2024: “In the last few hours, the Iranian regime has launched over 200 ballistic missiles at civilian targets in Israel. It’s too soon to assess the impact fully. But I utterly condemn this attempt by the Iranian regime to harm innocent Israelis, to escalate this incredibly dangerous situation and push the region ever closer to the brink.”
I completely condemn Iran's attack on Israel this evening. pic.twitter.com/cj2R6o5Lfd
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) October 1, 2024
“It cannot be tolerated. We stand with Israel, and we recognize her right to self-defence in the face of this aggression. Iran must stop these attacks, together with its proxies like Hezbollah. Iran has menaced the Middle East for far too long. Chaos and destruction brought not just to Israel, but to the people they live amongst in Lebanon and beyond.”
Secretary of State for Defense John Healey
Ambassador to the United Nations Barbara Woodward
Oct. 2, 2024: “The events this week are gravely concerning. Yesterday the Iranian regime launched over 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. We categorically condemn this act of aggression, which escalates an already dangerous situation. As my Prime Minister said yesterday, Israel has our full support in exercising its right to defend itself against Iranian aggression.
“President, we are deeply concerned about the prospect of further escalation in Lebanon and across the region. We have been clear: All our efforts now must be on stopping this cycle of violence. Iran and its allies across the region must exercise restraint and step away from the brink.”
France
Foreign Ministry
Oct. 2, 2024: “France condemns the attack directed against Israel with ballistic missiles fired from Iran. It reiterates its absolute commitment to Israel’s security. It helped ward off the Iranian threat with its military capabilities in the Middle East. A few hours before, a terrorist attack targeted civilians in Jaffa, killing 7 and injuring 10, according to initial reports. We utterly condemn this attack and extend our condolences to the victims’ families. Civilians must always be protected.
“France recalls the need to end the military escalation in the region, which only serves to worsen instability and increase insecurity, of which civilian populations are the first victims. France calls on Israel to end its military operations in Lebanon as quickly as possible. Hezbollah must stop its terrorist actions against Israel and its people.”
National Defense and Security Council
Oct. 1, 2024: “Faced with the dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the President of the Republic reaffirmed France's commitment to peace and security for all in the region. In this regard, he condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran's new attacks against Israel. Committed to Israel's security, France today mobilized its military resources in the Middle East to counter the Iranian threat. The Head of State also reiterated France's demand that Hezbollah cease its terrorist actions against Israel and its population.”
“The President of the Republic concluded that it was necessary for all actors involved in the crisis in the Middle East to exercise the greatest restraint.”
Germany
Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock
Oct. 1, 2024: “Israel is currently being attacked by Iran with missiles. I condemn the ongoing attack in the strongest possible terms. We have urgently warned Iran about this dangerous escalation. Iran must stop the attack immediately. It is driving the region further to the brink of the abyss.”
European Union
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
Oct. 1, 2024: Europe “strongly condemns” Iran’s attack on Israel. “The spiral of violence is threatening the lives of innocent civilians. It is also leading to a generalized conflict in the region and this must be avoided [at] all costs.”
President of the European Council Charles Michel
Oct. 1, 2024: “I condemn in the strongest terms Iran’s attack against Israel; this is a threat to regional security. The deadly escalatory spiral in the Middle East must stop now. A regional war is in no one’s interest. The EU stands ready to support efforts to deescalate and protect civilian lives.”
China
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Oct. 2, 2024: "China is deeply concerned over the turmoil in the Middle East. We oppose the violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and oppose moves that fuel antagonism and escalate tensions. China calls on the international community, especially major countries with influence, to play a constructive role and avoid further turmoil. China believes that the protracted fighting in Gaza is the root cause of this round of turmoil in the Middle East, and all parties need to work urgently for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire."
Australia
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Oct. 1, 2024: “Australia condemns Iran’s missile attack on Israel. This is an extremely dangerous escalation - Australia and the global community have been clear in our calls for de-escalation.
“Further hostilities put civilians at risk. We are monitoring the situation closely and encourage Australians in Israel to follow the advice of local authorities.”
Jordan
Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi
Oct. 2, 2024: “Jordan will not be anyone’s battlefield.”
Jordan will “defend itself with all its capabilities against any threat to its security, its stability and the safety of its citizens.”
“Jordan has clearly informed Iran and Israel of this stance.”
Ceasefire agreements in Gaza and Lebanon are necessary to “stop this dangerous escalation.”
United Nations
Secretary General António Guterres
Oct. 2, 2024: "Yesterday, Iran launched approximately 200 ballistic missiles towards Israel. Millions of people across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory were forced to seek shelter.
"As I did in relation to the Iranian attack in April - and as should have been obvious yesterday in the context of the condemnation I expressed - I again strongly condemn yesterday’s massive missile attack by Iran on Israel. These attacks paradoxically do nothing to support the cause of the Palestinian people or reduce their suffering."
Oct. 1, 2024: “I condemn the broadening of the Middle East conflict, with escalation after escalation.
“This must stop. We absolutely need a ceasefire.”