UN Welcomes Diplomatic Efforts to De-escalate Middle East Tensions

Istanbul (ANTARA) - The United Nations (UN) on Monday (1/6) welcomed intensive, last-minute diplomatic efforts that have the potential to prevent the worsening of the conflict in the Middle East caused by Israeli attacks on Lebanon.

“We welcome reports received today that intensive diplomatic efforts may be starting to bear fruit and could prevent further escalation,” said Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and UN Peacekeeping Operations.

Speaking during an emergency session of the UN Security Council regarding Lebanon, Pobee warned that developments on the ground indicate a dangerous and alarming escalation. This could directly undermine the cessation of hostilities agreement announced by the United States on 16 April, as well as erode fragile diplomatic efforts to defuse the situation.

Highlighting the alarming potential regional impact, Pobee cited reports from Tehran stating that, in response to the situation in Lebanon, Iran would suspend dialogue with the United States, block the Strait of Hormuz, and activate several other fronts.

She also urged Israel to withdraw all its forces from Lebanese territory, fully respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon.

Pobee welcomed the meeting between Lebanese and Israeli military representatives, facilitated by the United States in Washington on 29 May. She noted that further political-level talks are scheduled to take place on 2 and 3 June.

According to Pobee, the UN stands ready to support these various diplomatic efforts to achieve a sustainable cessation of hostilities that is fully adhered to by all parties on the ground.

The emergency UN Security Council session was proposed by France and received support from Russia, China, Denmark, Greece, Latvia, the United Kingdom, and Colombia.