Guterres Calls for Immediate De-escalation in Middle East After Strikes

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned of a serious escalation of the crisis in the Middle East following reports of the United States bombing Iranian nuclear facilities.

Addressing the Security Council in New York, Guterres recalled his appeal for peace, stressing that it was not heeded. He condemned the military escalation and warned of a potential "vicious cycle of retaliation," emphasizing the need for diplomacy and the protection of civilians, as well as ensuring safe navigation.

Guterres called for a credible and verifiable solution, including full access for IAEA inspectors, and stressed the importance of Iran respecting the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

He appealed to all member states to act in accordance with their obligations under the UN Charter and international law, assuring that the United Nations is ready to support any effort for a peaceful resolution.

He warned that the international community is at a critical crossroads, with one path leading to war and the other to peace, stressing that peace must not be abandoned.

Source: AΠE-MΠE