The African Union Commission has voiced serious concern over the reported military strikes carried out by the United States, in coordination with Israel, against targets inside the Iran, describing the development as a dangerous escalation in the Middle East.

In a press statement, the Chairperson of the Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said he is deeply concerned by the intensification of hostilities and called for immediate restraint from all sides.

He stressed that all parties involved must act in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to protect international peace and security.

The AU Commission warned that further escalation could have severe global consequences, particularly for energy markets, food supplies and economic stability.

It noted that African countries remain especially vulnerable to external shocks at a time when many are already grappling with conflict, inflation and fragile economic recovery.

The Chairperson urged all concerned actors to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy over military confrontation, emphasizing that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through force.

He also pointed to ongoing international mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, encouraging continued diplomatic engagement to prevent further deterioration and uphold the rules-based international order.

The AU Commission reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and called for urgent de-escalation to avoid worsening global instability.

By Adama Makasuba