ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — The African Union has expressed deep concern over reported military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran, warning that the escalation risks destabilising global peace and economic stability.
In a press statement, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, described the development as a “serious intensification of hostilities in the Middle East.”
“The Chairperson is deeply concerned by the reported military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the statement read.
Call for Restraint and International Law
Youssouf called for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue, stressing that all parties must comply with international law and the United Nations Charter.
“The Chairperson calls for restraint, urgent de-escalation, and sustained dialogue, stressing that all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security,” the statement said.
The AU’s intervention reflects Africa’s long-standing diplomatic position that disputes must be resolved through dialogue and multilateral frameworks rather than military confrontation.
Economic Risks for Africa
The AU warned that further escalation could worsen global instability, with ripple effects on energy markets, food security, and economic resilience.
These sectors remain critical for African economies already grappling with inflationary pressures, debt vulnerabilities, and climate-related shocks.
“The Chairperson warns that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability, with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute,” the statement added.
Analysts note that instability in the Middle East often drives up oil prices and disrupts trade routes, developments that directly affect fuel costs, transport prices, and the cost of basic commodities across African markets.
Support for Mediation Efforts
Youssouf urged concerned actors to prioritise diplomatic engagement, including ongoing mediation facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman.
“He urges all concerned actors to prioritise diplomatic engagement, including ongoing international mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, to prevent further deterioration and uphold the international rules-based order,” the statement said.
The AU Chairperson reiterated that sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not force, aligning the continent’s position with broader calls within the international community for de-escalation and negotiated solutions.
