Over War”: UN Chief Urges US, Israel and Iran to Step Back from Escalation

BRUSSELS – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a stark warning over escalating tensions, calling on United States, Israel and Iran to immediately de-escalate and prioritize diplomacy to avoid a wider regional crisis.

Speaking from the European Council in Brussels, Guterres said it was “high time” to end the war, warning that the conflict risks spiraling out of control, causing severe civilian suffering, damaging the global economy, and disproportionately affecting developing nations.

Addressing Washington and Tel Aviv, the UN chief urged an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict, stressing the urgent need to prevent further humanitarian and economic fallout.

In a direct message to Iran, he called for an end to attacks on neighboring countries, emphasizing that they were not parties to the conflict. He noted that the UN Security Council has condemned such actions and demanded their cessation.

Guterres also highlighted the critical importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, warning that any prolonged disruption would have devastating consequences for global trade and millions of people worldwide.

“The time has come for the force of law to prevail over the law of force,” he said, underscoring that diplomacy must take precedence over military confrontation.

The remarks come amid rising fears of a broader regional escalation, with the international community increasingly calling for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement.

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