UN Secretary-General: Military Attacks Violate UN Charter
UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a grave warning at an emergency session of the UN Security Council following massive aerial attacks by the United States and Israel on targets across Iran. Speaking with a heavy tone at UN headquarters in New York, Guterres stated that the current situation has brought the Middle East to the brink of uncontrolled collapse.
“I stand here today with deep sadness. This morning, the world awoke to news of massive military attacks launched by the United States and Israel against targets throughout the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Guterres opened his remarks at UN headquarters.
Guterres did not single out one party. He firmly condemned military actions by both sides as clear violations of the UN Charter. According to him, the use of armed force to resolve political disputes represents a setback for international law civilisation.
“I condemn these massive military attacks. At the same time, I also condemn Iran’s retaliatory attacks, which have violated the sovereignty and territorial integrity of many of its neighbouring countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates,” he stressed.
He reminded all council members that Article 2, paragraph 4 of the UN Charter requires all nations to refrain from threats or use of force against the territorial integrity of any state. “This principle is not merely a suggestion, but the foundation of world peace,” Guterres continued.
Guterres presented alarming data about the direct impact of the attacks. He brought humanitarian narratives into the council chamber to remind diplomats that decisions on war have real consequences for civilians.
“Incoming reports are deeply concerning. Approximately 20 cities in Iran, including Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tabriz have been attacked. However, what is most heartbreaking is the significant loss of civilian lives,” Guterres stated in a subdued tone.
Specifically, he referenced attacks on educational facilities. “There are reports of air strikes that killed at least 85 people at a girls’ school in Hormozgan Province. Children who should have been learning instead became victims of a confrontation they did not understand,” he added.
He revealed that the attacks occurred precisely as peace efforts were bearing fruit. He described the military action as a destruction of a “golden opportunity” for diplomacy.
“It is deeply unfortunate that this escalation occurred immediately following progress in indirect talks between the United States and Iran through mediation in Oman. A window of opportunity for de-escalation has now been forcibly closed,” he lamented.
At the conclusion of his address, he delivered a final warning to the entire world: “We must pull back from the brink of this abyss before it is too late. The world cannot, and will not, be able to bear another major war in the most unstable region on earth,” Guterres stated firmly.