UN chief urges restraint, warns over Middle East escalation

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced deep concern over the latest escalation in the Middle East, urging all parties to halt attacks and exercise maximum restraint.

In a statement issued by his deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq, Guterres said: "The Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the renewed escalation in the Middle East. He calls on all concerned parties to immediately stop attacks, exercise maximum restraint, and refrain from any action that could further inflame an already volatile situation."

He urged full compliance with ceasefires in Lebanon, Iran and the Gaza Strip, warning against steps that could undermine diplomatic efforts.

"The Secretary-General urges all parties to fully abide by the ceasefires in Lebanon, Iran and Gaza, and to avoid any steps that could undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts."

Guterres also expressed concern over Israel’s closure of crossings into Gaza:

"The Secretary-General is also deeply concerned by the decision by Israel to close crossings into Gaza. He reiterates his call for the immediate reopening of all crossings to ensure the rapid, safe and unhindered passage of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout Gaza."

He stressed respect for international law and civilian protection, adding that navigation freedoms must be upheld.

"The Secretary-General underscores that the exercise of navigational rights and freedoms, in accordance with international law, must be respected. He further calls on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law and to take all feasible precautions to protect civilians."

Guterres reiterated that "there is no military solution" and urged dialogue.

"The Secretary-General reiterates that there is no military solution to the conflicts in the Middle East. The only way forward is through dialogue and negotiations. He therefore urges all concerned parties to work towards diplomatic solutions that advance regional and international peace and security."

By Tamilla Hasanova