ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA February 28, 2026 – – The African Union Commission today voiced deep concern over the reported military strikes by the United States and Israel on targets inside Iran, calling for immediate restraint to avert further escalation in the Middle East.
In an official press statement, AU Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described the action as “a serious intensification of hostilities” and warned of its potential to destabilise global energy markets, food security, and economic resilience — with especially acute risks for Africa, where conflicts and economic pressures are already widespread.
“The Chairperson calls for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue,” the statement reads. “All parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.”
Youssouf urged concerned actors to prioritise diplomatic engagement, including ongoing mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, and reiterated that “sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force.”
The AU statement comes hours after explosions rocked Tehran and other Iranian cities, following the launch of coordinated US-Israeli strikes. President Donald Trump described the operation as targeting Iran’s nuclear programme, missile capabilities and military infrastructure, while Iran has vowed a “crushing” retaliation, launching missiles toward Israel and US assets in the Gulf region.
The African Union, representing 55 member states, positioned the statement as a call to uphold the rules-based international order amid fears that the conflict could spill over into broader regional instability with ripple effects on global commodity prices and African economies heavily dependent on energy imports and food stability.
The full press statement is available on the official African Union website (au.int).
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments in this fast-evolving situation.
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