ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 28 (Xinhua) -- African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Saturday expressed "deep concern" over the military escalation in the Middle East, warning that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability.
In a statement issued Saturday, the chairperson said he is "deeply concerned by the reported military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside Iran, an escalation that marks a serious intensification of hostilities in the Middle East."
Calling for restraint, urgent de-escalation and sustained dialogue, Youssouf stressed that all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.
He warned 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 commission chief urged all concerned actors to prioritize diplomatic engagement to prevent a further deterioration and uphold the international rules-based order.
"Sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force," Youssouf said. ■