Photo: US Department of Defense/AFP
22/06/2025 22:08
According to Xinhua, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry sharply criticised the US attack on the Fordow nuclear facility—reportedly targeted with bunker-buster bombs—calling it a grave violation of international law and the principles of the UN Charter. The facility is under the protection of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
“The actions of the United States have seriously undermined global stability and further escalated tensions in the Middle East,” the spokesperson warned. China urged all parties involved—especially Israel—to agree to an immediate ceasefire, protect civilians, and engage in dialogue. The spokesperson added that China stands ready to cooperate with the international community to uphold justice and restore peace and stability in the region.
In Budapest, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán convened the Hungarian Defence Council in reaction to the worsening situation. “The effects of the Iranian–Israeli war will reach Europe: we must prepare for protests and an increased threat of terrorism,” he wrote.
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó also commented on the developments, stating: “Unfortunately, the situation in the Middle East is becoming increasingly grave, with fierce fighting escalating. We Hungarians have a vested interest in seeing peace restored. People in the region must be able to live a peaceful, secure life, free from the constant threat of terrorism.”
He emphasised that the immediate security of the Middle East is closely tied to that of the European continent, and therefore Hungary’s primary interest is to avoid further escalation. “We must prevent direct confrontation between major powers in, or because of, the Middle East. It is also in our interest to avoid the emergence of new nuclear arsenals in the world,” Szijjártó added.
On Sunday, the Hungarian foreign minister held a series of telephone consultations with key regional figures, including Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdul Latif Zayani, and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi.
“I told all of them that Hungary is committed to a peaceful resolution. Any escalation would pose a serious threat to the security of Europe,” he said. He added that Hungary is closely monitoring developments and that the Defence Council would meet again shortly.
Szijjártó also held a phone conversation with Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, reiterating Hungary’s commitment to global nuclear security and its opposition to the proliferation of nuclear weapons.