In a significant development from Cairo, Mohamed El-Baradei, former head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, called on Gulf countries to act decisively to prevent escalating tensions following US President Donald Trump’s recent threats against Tehran. El-Baradei warned that the region risks becoming engulfed in widespread conflict if these warnings are ignored.
Addressing Gulf governments directly, El-Baradei urged them to use all available means to stop what he described as a dangerous path that could turn the Middle East into “a ball of fire.” His appeal came after Trump issued a stern ultimatum to Iran, threatening severe consequences unless Tehran agrees to a deal.
El-Baradei’s message, posted on social media platform X, also called on international actors including the United Nations, the European Union, French President Emmanuel Macron, and the foreign ministries of China and Russia to intervene and prevent further escalation. He questioned whether anything could be done to halt what he termed “this madness.”
Trump’s ultimatum referenced a previous deadline set on March 26, demanding that Iran either reach a deal or reopen the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blocked since US and Israeli strikes on Tehran on February 28 triggered broader regional conflict. Trump emphasized the urgency by stating that only 48 hours remain before “all Hell will reign down on them.”
El-Baradei, 83, who served as director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 1997 to 2009, played a key role during the initial controversies surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. His leadership, alongside the IAEA, was recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 for promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy. He also served as Egypt’s vice president, adding significant diplomatic weight to his current warnings.
