United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday condemned the military action by the United States and Israel against Iran, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation in the region.
Earlier in the day, the U.S. and Israel launched what U.S. President Donald Trump called "major combat operations" against Iran, plunging the war-torn Middle East into a new round of violent conflict.
At a UN Security Council meeting on Iran, Guterres said the UN Charter provides the foundation for the maintenance of international peace and security. Article Two of the charter clearly states that all members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or user force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, he noted, adding that international law and international humanitarian law must always be respected.
"Military action carries the risk of igniting a chain of events that no one can control in the most volatile region of the world. Let me be clear, there is no viable alternative to the peaceful settlement of international disputes. Lasting peace can only be achieved through peaceful means, including genuine dialogue and negotiations," Guterres said.
The secretary-general noted that the U.S. and Iran had completed a third round of Omani-mediated indirect talks before the attack, with technical talks and a new round of political negotiations planned for next week in Vienna. He expressed deep regret that this diplomatic opportunity has been wasted.
He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation, warning that a failure to do so risks a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians and regional stability. He urged all parties to return to the negotiating table, especially on the Iranian nuclear issue.
UN chief condemns military escalation, calling for immediate cessation of hostilities in Middle East
