African Union Commission Expresses Deep Concern Over Reported US-Israel Strikes on Iran, Urges Immediate Restraint and De-escalation
The African Union (AU) Commission has voiced serious alarm at the escalation of hostilities in the Middle East following reported military strikes by the United States, in coordination with Israel, against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran.
In a strongly worded press statement issued early Saturday morning, AU Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described the development as “a serious intensification of hostilities in the Middle East” and warned of grave risks to both regional and global stability.
“The Chairperson calls for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue, stressing that all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security,” the statement read.
Mr. Youssouf highlighted the potential spillover effects on Africa, noting that further escalation could exacerbate existing vulnerabilities across the continent:
“The Chairperson warns that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability, with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.”
The Chairperson urged all stakeholders to redouble diplomatic efforts, specifically mentioning ongoing mediation initiatives supported by the Sultanate of Oman. He reiterated the AU’s long-standing position that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through military means alone:
“H.E. Mr Youssouf reiterates that sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force.”
The statement reaffirms the African Union’s consistent advocacy for peaceful conflict resolution, multilateral cooperation, and strict adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
The AU’s reaction follows Israel’s announcement of preemptive strikes on Iranian targets, coupled with reports of explosions in Tehran and nationwide air raid alerts across Israel. The strikes were described by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz as necessary “to remove threats,” amid heightened fears of retaliatory missile or drone attacks from Iran.
No official casualty or damage figures have been confirmed by either side as of March 1, 2026. The United Nations Secretary-General and several world leaders have also called for maximum restraint to prevent a wider regional conflict.
The African Union’s intervention underscores the continent’s growing concern over the indirect but severe consequences of Middle East instability including oil price shocks, food import cost spikes, supply chain disruptions, and increased pressure on already strained African economies.
The AU Commission reiterated its readiness to support any credible mediation efforts and called on all parties to prioritise dialogue over military confrontation. Further statements or diplomatic engagements from Addis Ababa are expected as the situation evolves.
