NEW YORK, (PIC)
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Thursday that the Middle East is on the verge of a broader regional war, cautioning that the ongoing escalation could trigger serious global repercussions.
Speaking at UN headquarters, Guterres said the world is standing on the “edge of a wider conflict,” noting that the consequences of the current escalation are already beginning to unfold beyond the region.
He stressed that the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as military operations intensify, warning that any disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would directly impact the world’s most vulnerable populations.
Guterres added that the targeting of civilians and infrastructure, combined with rising food and energy prices, is placing growing pressure on societies worldwide. He warned that continued escalation would only deepen instability and suffering.
Calling for urgent action, the UN chief urged an end to what he described as a “cycle of death and destruction,” emphasizing the need to protect civilians and vital infrastructure, including nuclear facilities, and to ensure freedom of international navigation.
He also called for space to be given to diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a peaceful resolution, noting that he remains in contact with various parties and plans to dispatch his special envoy to the region to support de-escalation efforts.
