UN SECRETARY‑GENERAL CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE IN MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT

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By: Balogun Ibrahim

The António Guterres has strongly condemned the escalating military tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, warning that continued hostilities could spark a wider regional conflict with serious consequences for global peace and civilian safety.

In a statement posted Saturday on his official X account, Guterres voiced deep concern over the growing confrontation and urged all parties to stop military actions and return to diplomatic solutions.

“I condemn today’s military escalation in the Middle East,” he said.

“The use of force by the United States & Israel against Iran, and the subsequent retaliation by Iran across the region, undermines international peace & security.”

The UN chief emphasized that all nations involved must fully comply with their obligations under international law, particularly the principles outlined in the UN Charter.

“All Member States must respect their obligations under international law, including the UN Charter,” he said.

“The Charter explicitly forbids ‘the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations.’”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that ongoing military exchanges could quickly spiral beyond current battle lines, destabilising an already fragile region and putting millions of civilians at risk.

“I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation. Failure to do so risks a wider regional conflict with severe consequences for civilians and regional stability.

“I strongly urge all parties to return immediately to the negotiating table,” Guterres said.

Reiterating the United Nations’ long-standing stance, he stressed that diplomacy remains the only sustainable path to resolving international disputes.

“I reiterate that there is no viable alternative to the peaceful settlement of international disputes, in full accordance with international law, including the UN Charter.

“The Charter provides the foundation for maintaining international peace and security,” he added.

The statement comes amid growing global concern over intensified military exchanges involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, prompting renewed calls from world leaders and international organisations for restraint and urgent dialogue to prevent further escalation.

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