Guterres alarmed by civilian casualties and urges the US and Iran to immediately return to diplomacy
The renewed escalation in the Middle East once again highlights the heavy cost of military confrontation for civilians. The United Nations says protecting people and preventing further escalation must remain an immediate priority.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concern over renewed overnight exchanges of fire between the United States and Iran, according to UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.
Guterres called for an immediate halt to military action and urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint in order to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
The UN chief was particularly alarmed by reports of civilian casualties. He also expressed deep concern over reports that a strike had reportedly hit a wedding ceremony in Iran.
Guterres strongly condemned all attacks against civilians and stressed that international humanitarian law must be respected. This includes the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution in the conduct of military operations.
The Secretary-General warned that further escalation in the Middle East could have devastating consequences for civilians and humanitarian operations. Aid organizations are already operating under severe pressure and with insufficient resources.
An escalation around the Gulf could place an additional burden on humanitarian efforts and further reduce the ability of international organizations to provide assistance to people affected by the conflict. Against this backdrop, Guterres urged the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran to urgently return to diplomacy. He stressed that a durable settlement can only be achieved through dialogue and negotiations.
The UN continues to call for restraint and a political approach aimed at reducing tensions, protecting civilians and preventing the conflict from spreading further across the region.
As reported by SSTV+, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on the US and Iran to immediately halt military action and return to diplomacy, stressing the need to protect civilians and prevent further escalation.
