UN Secretary-General voices concerns over latest US-Iran exchange of fire

The United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has expressed profound concern over the occurrence of exchanges of fire between the United States and Iran.

“The UN Secretary-General is deeply concerned by a number of reports of civilian casualties, including in attacks reported to have hit a wedding ceremony in Iran,” said UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.

Guterres condemned all attacks against civilians. He reiterated that all parties must respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution.

“The UN Secretary-General reaffirms his call for an immediate cessation of military actions, and urges all relevant parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions or rhetoric that could exacerbate the already high tensions,” Dujarric stated.

He explained that very few countries in the region remain untouched by this escalation, with vital airspace and shipping routes continuing to be heavily impacted.

“Further escalation… will have devastating consequences for civilians as well as the wider region and beyond,” he said.

Dujarric noted that the escalation in the Middle East has had devastating impacts on civilians and has added further pressure to humanitarian needs and operations throughout the region and beyond.

In a region already facing numerous humanitarian crises, the escalation in the Gulf risks worsening as humanitarian operations are already overwhelmed and underfunded.

Furthermore, Guterres urged the US and Iran to immediately return to the path of diplomacy. A comprehensive and sustainable resolution can only be achieved through dialogue and negotiation.