United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, has expressed worry over the escalating conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Iran, warning that additional military interventions could have “enormous consequences.”
In a short statement posted on social media, Guterres called for immediate cessation of hostilities from both parties in order to avoid internationalization of the conflict which has entered Day four with the death toll teaching at least 670 people and wounded thousands others.
“I remain profoundly alarmed by the ongoing military escalation in the Middle East between Israel and Iran. I reiterate my call for immediate de-escalation leading to a ceasefire. I strongly appeal to all to avoid any further internationalization of the conflict. Any additional military interventions could have enormous consequences, not only for those involved but for the whole region and for international peace and security at large.” Antonio Guterres stated.
“I condemn the tragic and unnecessary loss of lives and injuries to civilians and damage to homes and critical civilian infrastructure. Diplomacy remains the best and only way to address concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security issues.” He added.
World leaders including US’s Donald Trump, Russia’s Vladimir Putin, French president Emmanuel Macron have expressed interest in the conflict with the former two declaring support for Israel. Regional leaders have also expressed concerns about the conflict escalating into a full-blown war, with neither of the two belligerents backing down.
“The UN Charter remains our shared framework to save people from the scourge of war. I urge all Member States to comply fully with the Charter and international law, including international humanitarian law.”
