Iran has responded with surprising restraint to Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, breaking from its traditionally confrontational stance toward the former president.
"The results of the United States elections are not our concern. It will not affect the lives of Iranian citizens," an Iranian government spokesperson stated Wednesday, in what seems to be an unusually measured response from Tehran.
Other world leaders rush to congratulate Trump on his historic comeback victory. French President Emmanuel Macron was among the first to extend his congratulations, emphasizing his readiness to rebuild their previous working relationship. "I'm ready to work together with you again, as we did for four years," Macron stated, adding that their shared beliefs could pave the way for "peace and prosperity."
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also quickly reached out to the president-elect, referencing their September meeting and Trump's "peace through strength" doctrine. Zelenskyy expressed eagerness to discuss strengthening U.S.-Ukraine strategic partnerships, especially in light of ongoing Russian aggression.
Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni highlighted the historic bonds between Italy and the United States in her congratulatory message, describing the two nations as "sisters" connected by "an unshakeable alliance, shared values, and historic friendship."
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the importance of American leadership in the alliance, stating he looks forward to working with Trump again to "promote peace through strength" – echoing a phrase that has become synonymous with Trump's foreign policy approach.
The global response has largely centered on themes of cooperation and strategic partnership, with Iran's notably restrained reaction standing out against the backdrop of previous tensions between Tehran and the Trump administration.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a separate statement, hailed Trump's victory as "the greatest comeback in history."
