UN Chief Criticises Return of Confrontation Between US and Iran

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has criticised the return of tensions between the United States and Iran following military clashes, which prompted US President Donald Trump to declare a ceasefire with Tehran ‘over’. ‘The Secretary-General is concerned about the return of military confrontation in the Gulf region. The incidents we have witnessed over the last 24 hours risk derailing the diplomatic progress that has been made between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States,’ Guterres’ spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, said at a press conference on Wednesday (8/7). He warned that a return to full-scale hostilities would trigger catastrophic consequences for the people of the region, and for international peace and security. The impact of the conflict also has the potential to spill over into the global economy. ‘The Secretary-General calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalatory actions, and take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions,’ Dujarric said. Guterres also recalled the obligation of all parties to fully comply with international law, including the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as respect for the rights and freedoms of navigation. Furthermore, the UN chief urged the US and Iran to promptly resume negotiations and address unresolved issues through diplomacy. ‘Of course, we remain committed to supporting all efforts to prevent a return to conflict, restore stability, and advance a comprehensive and sustainable solution to this conflict,’ Dujarric said. The statement was delivered after the US and Iran launched attacks on each other on Wednesday, in the latest escalation following Tehran’s attack on three tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The strait is one of the world’s most important energy trade routes, carrying a large portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports from Gulf countries.