Foreign Minister Voices Alarm Over Rising Middle East Tensions

2026-03-01 - 19:46

Iceland’s Foreign Minister has voiced concern about the risk of wider conflict in the Middle East following US and Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory action by Tehran. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir said the Iranian clerical leadership had fuelled instability across the region but warned that further escalation would pose a serious threat to international peace. What's This Story? Iceland’s Foreign Minister Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir commented on US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation Iceland has raised concerns about human rights in Iran at the UN Human Rights Council Icelandic authorities assisting citizens in the region in co-operation with Nordic countries Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir. Photo: Golli. Iceland Review. As reported by RÚV, the minister characterised the Iranian regime as “a breeding ground for terrorist groups”. However, she stressed the importance of upholding international law and the UN Charter, backing comments made by António Guterres, who told the UN Security Council the situation represented a grave danger to global security. Ms Gunnarsdóttir also highlighted Iceland’s longstanding criticism of Tehran’s human rights record, including initiatives at the UN Human Rights Council. The Foreign Ministry has received reports from Icelanders in the region who are struggling to leave. She said officials were working closely with Nordic partners that maintain embassies locally and urged citizens to follow official guidance and local media updates.