United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has responded to the recent hostilities between Iran and Israel, stating the critical need for all parties involved to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation in the region.
In a released statement and a video shared on the UN X account, Guterres stated that the world cannot afford another war and urged for immediate measures to de-escalate the current situation.
The reported barrage of drones and missiles launched by Iran towards Israel has already resulted in significant intercepts over the weekend, raising concerns of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Expressing deep concern over the ongoing violence, particularly citing the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, Guterres shared on the severe impact on civilian populations.
He cautioned against actions that could trigger broader military confrontations across multiple fronts, stressing the urgent need to protect civilians.
Citing the Friendly Relations Declaration of 1970, Guterres calls for the prohibition of acts of reprisal involving the use of force under international law.
Emphasizing the shared responsibility of all parties to prevent further escalations, he called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid.
Guterres also calls for a stop to violence in the occupied West Bank, calm tensions along the Blue Line, and ensure safe passage in the Red Sea region.
He reiterated that regional and global peace and security are under mounting threat, and collective responsibility is needed to avert further conflicts for the betterment of all involved parties.
