Russia condemns U.S. strikes as Israel pounds Tehran; EU warns of Hormuz risk

BRUSSELS / MOSCOW / TEHRAN, 23 June 2025 – Global tensions are rising as new military strikes intensify the Israel–Iran conflict and world leaders condemn escalatory moves.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry and President Vladimir Putin strongly condemned the U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities this past weekend. Describing the attack as “absolutely unprovoked aggression” and “dangerous,” the Kremlin accused Washington of violating international norms. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that the action could worsen regional instability and offered Russia’s role as a mediator to help de-escalate. 

Following the U.S. strikes, Israel has launched a new wave of unprecedented air raids on Tehran, targeting government and alleged repression-linked sites, including prisons and military agencies. Satellite imagery and eyewitness reports show damage to Evin Prison and nearby security complexes.

At an emergency EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, High Representative Kaja Kallas voiced concern that Iran could retaliate by closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s seaborne oil passes. “Such a move would be extremely dangerous and not good for anybody,” she warned, calling for urgent diplomacy and de-escalation. 

With NATO’s annual summit in The Hague approaching, European allies, including Spain’s representative, are expected to press calls for peace and exploration of Article 5 scenarios if Iranian aggression toward U.S. personnel triggers a collective defense response.

Iran has pledged a “decisive response” following the weekend strikes, but has not confirmed closing the Strait. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps sources revealed missile strikes on U.S. bases—including in Qatar and Iraq—were launched in retaliation. Tehran may also use economic and diplomatic countermeasures.

What are the implications for Namibia?

Oil prices spiked and the South African rand, which is pegged to the Namibia dollar, weakened on Monday following U.S. air strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. With Iran producing 3.3 million barrels a day, analysts warn that any retaliation, such as closing the vital Strait of Hormuz, could send Brent crude prices soaring to $90 a barrel.