Guterres urges U.S. and Iran to reach agreement to avoid escalation risks

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is appealing to the United States and Iran to forge a lasting peace agreement and avert the risks of escalating conflict. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, conveyed Guterres's profound concern over the intensifying tensions in the Middle East, which include reciprocal attacks between Washington and Tehran and hostile rhetoric.

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The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the continuing escalation of tension in the Middle East, including the attacks by the United States against Iran and the attacks by Iran against neighboring countries of the Gulf and other regions that are not part of the conflict, as well as by the notable increase in hostile rhetoric.

The U.N. chief's call comes after both nations exchanged strikes for a second consecutive day, following Iran's downing of a U.S. helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. forces targeted positions within Iran, while Tehran responded with strikes on U.S. bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. Iran also declared the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for hydrocarbon transport, closed.

Guterres implored all parties to reinstate a complete ceasefire, prevent any further deterioration of the situation, and ensure freedom of navigation. He warned that a resumption of conflict could lead to "unpredictable consequences for the region and the world, especially for the most vulnerable countries."

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He urges the United States and Iran to redouble their efforts to reach a peaceful, comprehensive and lasting agreement that promotes regional and international peace and security.

Prior to the recent bombardments, negotiations between the U.S. and Iran had been stalled for weeks, despite mediation efforts by Pakistan. Guterres emphasized that dialogue and genuine negotiations remain the "only way forward" to promote regional and international peace and security.

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the only way forward