UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced deep alarm on Wednesday over the escalating military confrontation between Israel and Iran.
In a statement, Guterres urged for an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire to prevent further spiralling of the conflict.
“I strongly appeal to all to avoid any further internationalization of the conflict,” he warned through his spokesperson’s office.
He cautioned that any additional military intervention could unleash catastrophic consequences across the region and beyond.
Guterres condemned the rising toll of civilian deaths, injuries, and destruction of vital infrastructure caused by the hostilities.
He reaffirmed that diplomacy remains the sole viable path to address tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security.
“The UN Charter remains our shared framework to save people from the scourge of war,” he stressed.
He called on all UN member states to fully comply with international law, including humanitarian principles.
When asked about concerns over a potential US strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, Guterres’ spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the Secretary-General was “very concerned.”
The spokesperson reiterated the urgent need to prevent further internationalization of the unfolding conflict.
Tensions have sharply escalated since Friday, when Israel launched airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites.
Tehran responded with retaliatory missile strikes against Israel, deepening fears of a wider war.
At least 585 people have been killed and 1,326 injured in Iran since the Israeli offensive began.
Israeli officials reported at least 24 deaths and hundreds wounded in Iranian missile attacks.
The region now teeters on the brink of a broader and potentially devastating conflict.