United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the ongoing military escalation between Iran and the U.S./Israel, warning that continued hostilities could trigger a wider regional conflict with severe consequences for global peace and civilian safety.
In a statement posted on his official X account on Saturday, Guterres called on all parties to halt military actions and return to diplomacy.
“I condemn today’s military escalation in the Middle East. The use of force by the United States and Israel against Iran, and the subsequent retaliation by Iran across the region, undermines international peace and security,” he said.
The UN chief stressed that all countries involved must adhere to international law, including the UN Charter, which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.
Guterres warned that the ongoing military exchanges risk rapid escalation beyond current battle lines, potentially destabilising the region and placing millions of civilians at risk. “I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation. Failing to do so risks a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians and regional stability,” he said.
He reiterated the UN’s long-standing position that diplomatic engagement remains the only sustainable path to resolving international disputes. “There is no viable alternative to the peaceful settlement of international disputes, in full accordance with international law, including the UN Charter, which provides the foundation for maintaining international peace and security,” Guterres added.
The statement follows growing international concern over intensified military exchanges between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, highlighting calls from global leaders and organizations for restraint and urgent dialogue to prevent further escalation.
