UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning on Wednesday, urging an immediate de-escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran following days of reciprocal strikes. The conflict, which began with Israel’s surprise attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities last Friday, has escalated rapidly, with both sides exchanging missile and drone assaults daily.
"I remain profoundly alarmed by the ongoing military escalation," Guterres said in a statement, emphasizing that further internationalization of the conflict could have "enormous consequences" for regional stability and global security. He condemned civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, calling for adherence to international humanitarian law.
The UN chief stressed diplomacy as the sole viable path to address Iran’s nuclear program and broader Middle East security challenges. "The UN Charter remains our shared framework to save people from the scourge of war," he asserted, urging member states to prioritize dialogue over military action.
Analysts warn the conflict risks destabilizing energy markets and trade routes critical to Asia’s economies. Meanwhile, diaspora communities across the region monitor developments closely, fearing prolonged instability.
