The Israel-Iran conflict has divided the world into sharply contrasting blocs, threatening a broader regional war. A few countries have rallied around Israel. Others have rallied around Iran. A third have urged restraint. As hostilities escalate, strategic stakes are driving countries more than ideology. US President Donald Trump has provided strong backing to Israel.
Meanwhile, powers like Turkey and Russia have backed Tehran in varying degrees. Europe, China, and India have responded with caution, urging de-escalation but pursuing separate interests.
Trump Rallies Behind Israel
The United States, during Trump’s rule, has strongly supported Israel’s war effort. Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender.” He also issued a warning against Iran’s nuclear aspirations, calling on everyone to “immediately leave Tehran!” Trump indicated that Israeli attacks had US approval.
The US continues to supply Israel with intelligence and sophisticated weapons.
Europe Supports Israel But With a Caveat
The majority of the European nations as well as the G7 group have been politically backing Israel. However, a few leaders, such as French President Emmanuel Macron, cautioned against resorting to force to change the regime in Iran. “The greatest mistake would be to overthrow the regime with military action,” Macron stated.
However, the UK has signaled potential military assistance. British Finance Minister Rachel Reeves confirmed the UK can potentially provide assets in order to support allies.
Turkey and Russia Support Tehran’s Right to Defend
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan supported Iran’s right to defend itself. He accused Israel of being a “terror state” and likened Netanyahu to Hitler. He said Iran’s response was “natural and lawful.” Russia, without offering direct military support, rebuked Israel’s actions. Moscow urged the US not to get involved to avert further chaos.
China has stayed quiet but dispatched several Iranian-bound cargo planes following Israel’s attack on Tehran. Beijing relies hugely on Iranian crude. It doesn’t want any disturbance, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. China has condemned Israel but isn’t openly supporting Iran.
Arab World Remains Divided, India Urges Peace
Several Gulf countries publicly denounced Israel. But some Sunni Arab states are glad Iran is weakening in private. Syria and Qatar are still practicing quiet diplomacy. India, an ally of both Israel and Iran, appealed for restraint. It also called on both sides to return to the dialogue table and desist from escalation. India also kept its distance from the SCO statement denouncing Israel.
The war threatens to escalate into a broader conflict. If Iran shuts down oil routes or attacks regional infrastructure, global energy markets will be harmed. The existing fault lines are based on strategic calculations rather than ideology, experts add. The outcome of the war could reshape West Asia and global politics for years to come.