Western powers warn Iran against attacking Israel

LONDON: Five Western countries have called on Iran and its allies to refrain from anticipated attack on Israel in retaliation for the recent killings of senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah.

Western Powers are concerned Iran and its proxies could attack Israel within the next 24 hours in retaliation for the killing of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran late last month.

The message from US, France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom –calls on Israel and Hamas to show “no further delay” in getting back to the negotiating table to hammer out a cease-fire and hostage release deal – also comes as Lebanon is bracing for a wider war and the Islamic State is plotting its re-emergence. 

US warns of potential major attack by Iran

“We are deeply concerned by the heightened tensions in the region, and united in our commitment to de-escalation and regional stability. In this context, and in particular, we call on Iran and its allies to refrain from attacks that would further escalate regional tensions and jeopardize the opportunity to agree a ceasefire and the release of hostages”, they said in a joint statement.

They will bear responsibility for actions that jeopardize this opportunity for peace and stability,” the leaders added. “No country or nation stands to gain from a further escalation in the Middle East.”