Bulgarian president warns of global crisis if Middle East tensions escalate

Bulgarian President Iliana Iotova on Tuesday warned of a potential global humanitarian and economic crisis if tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate, urging all parties to act with restraint and responsibility.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Iotova said further escalation would bring "more destruction, casualties and prolonged instability," with consequences extending far beyond the region.

"I urge all parties involved in the Middle East conflict to act with reason, restraint and responsibility," she said.

Iotova emphasized the need to return to the principles of international law and diplomacy, describing them as the only path toward lasting solutions.

"People expect wisdom, not force; dialogue, not threats; peace, not war. They expect responsible leadership. Today, that is the bravest course of action," the president added.

Regional escalations have continued since Israel and the US launched an offensive against Iran on Feb. 28, killing more than 1,340 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure and disrupting global markets and aviation.