Dhaka, Feb. 28 -- Global leaders have voiced deep concern following military strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran, and Tehran's subsequent retaliation, warning of the risk of a wider regional conflict across the Middle East.

The United Nations Human Rights Chief, Volker Turk, called for "restraint" and urged all parties to "see reason, to de-escalate, and for a return to the negotiating table."

"I deplore the military strikes across Iran this morning by Israel and the United States of America, and the subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran," he said, stressing that civilians ultimately bear the brunt of armed conflict. He reminded those involved that protecting civilians is "paramount" under international law.

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