Guterres calls for immediate halt to Gulf attacks, urges Iran-US dialogue

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced profound concern regarding the resurgence of military clashes in the Gulf. He issued an urgent appeal for an immediate cessation of hostilities and called for the prompt resumption of diplomatic engagement between Iran and the United States.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, the Secretary-General characterized the situation as a "serious escalation." This assessment stems from Iranian attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, retaliatory U.S. strikes against Iran, and Iranian attacks targeting neighboring countries. Guterres emphasized that "all these attacks must stop," urging de-escalation and a return to dialogue.

All parties involved were implored by the Secretary-General to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further actions that could provoke escalation, and take immediate steps to defuse the crisis. He cautioned that a return to full-scale conflict would bring "catastrophic consequences" for the region's populations, international peace and security, and the global economy.

Guterres reiterated the necessity of restoring full freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting its critical importance for regional stability and international trade. He concluded by urging Iran and the United States to urgently restart negotiations and resolve outstanding issues through diplomacy to prevent further destabilization.