Foreign Minister Dr. Hasan Mahmud has urged concerned nations to take decisive steps in de-escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, emphasizing the need to halt Israeli aggression in Gaza.

During a meeting with Antigua and Barbuda Foreign Minister Chet Greene at the state guesthouse Padma on Sunday, Dr. Mahmud reiterated Bangladesh's stance, stating, "We (Bangladesh) want peace, not war."

His remarks follow Iran's missile strikes on Israeli territory, including Tel Aviv and West Jerusalem, as retaliation for an attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria.

Addressing the situation, Dr. Mahmud noted, "Iran retaliated due to Israel's attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria. Otherwise, it would not have happened."

He emphasized the importance of immediate and effective measures by all relevant countries to resolve Iran-Israel tensions and prevent further casualties in Gaza. "We are never for war, we are for peace," he reaffirmed.

The recent escalation has heightened tensions in the region, prompting concerns of broader conflict involving the United States and other regional actors. Despite Iran's warning of a larger response, efforts to contain the situation remain imperative to prevent further escalation and protect civilian lives.

The missile and drone attack, primarily launched from inside Iran, resulted in limited damage in Israel, largely intercepted with assistance from the US, Britain, and Jordan.