Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso (PANA) - The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed his "deep concern" over the military strikes launched by the US in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside the Islamic Republic of Iran, an escalation that marks a serious intensification of hostilities in the Eastern Middle East, according to a statement from the Institution published on Saturday.
The AU Commission Chair called for restraint, urgent de-escalation and sustained dialogue, stressing that all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the UN Charter to safeguard international peace and security.
The chairperson warned that the new escalation threatened to worsen global instability, with severe consequences for energy markets, food security and economic resilience - particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.
He urged all relevant actors to prioritize diplomatic engagement, including ongoing international mediation efforts facilitated by the Sultanate of Oman, to prevent further deterioration and maintain the rules-based international order
Mr. Youssouf reaffirmed that lasting peace could only be achieved through diplomacy and not by force.
-0- PANA TNDD/JSG/BBA/RA 28Feb2026
