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As many continue to fear that World War III was in the offing following tensions arising from the U.S government-sponsored assassination of Major-General Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran’s elite Quds Force last Thursday, some of the world war powers in Europe are making their positions known.
“There is now an urgent need for de-escalation. We call on all parties to exercise utmost restraint and responsibility. The current cycle of violence in Iraq must be stopped.
“We specifically call on Iran to refrain from further violent action or proliferation, and urge Iran to reverse all measures inconsistent with the JCPOA.
“We recall our attachment to the sovereignty and security of Iraq. Another crisis risks jeopardizing years of efforts to stabilize Iraq.
“We also reaffirm our commitment to continue the fight against Daesh, which remains a high priority. The preservation of the Coalition is key in this regard. We therefore urge the Iraqi authorities to continue providing the Coalition all the necessary support.
“We stand ready to continue our engagement with all sides in order to contribute to defuse tensions and restore stability to the region.”
Russia, China not ready for war
The fears of the third World War may just be unfounded as none of the world powers, including Russia and China, who would stand against the US, nor American allies in Europe and Asia, look ready for it. While Russia simply condemned the U.S airstrike, China has been quiet.
It was gathered that in a conversation with Macron, Russian President Vladimir Putin, “agreed that US actions have the potential to seriously aggravate the situation in the region.”
Israeli military on high alert
Israel is the only world power voicing support for the US action.
Israeli prime minister defended the U.S. air strike on Friday and and put his country’s military on high alert, after Iran threatened revenge.
“Just as Israel has the right of self-defense, the United States has exactly the same right,” Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office.
“Qassem Soleimani is responsible for the death of American citizens and many other innocent people. He was planning more such attacks,” he said, speaking at an airport in Greece after cutting short his trip and returning to Israel.