UN Chief Antonio Guterres on Iran-Israel Conflict: Middle East, World Cannot “Afford More War

The Middle East is currently facing a critical situation, as emphasized by the Secretary-General of the United Nations during an address to the Security Council. He stressed that further escalation of conflict in the region would have severe repercussions for both the area and the global community. Urging for immediate de-escalation and restraint, the Secretary-General highlighted the imminent danger of a full-scale devastating conflict that the people of the region are confronting. On Saturday, Iran carried out a direct attack on long-time rival Israel, launching over 300 missiles and drones.

However, the majority of these were intercepted by Israel, the United States, Jordan, and Britain. The Israeli army reported 12 injuries, while Iran claimed the attack was in response to an earlier air strike on Tehran’s consulate building in Damascus, which resulted in the deaths of seven Iranian Revolutionary Guards. This exchange marked a significant escalation between the two countries, fueling apprehensions of a wider conflict and potential counterstrikes from Israel. The mounting tensions occur against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, which has led to substantial casualties on both sides.

Additionally, Iran-backed groups in several countries have carried out attacks on Israeli and Western targets. At the request of Israel, the Security Council convened to address the escalating crisis, with Israel’s Ambassador urging the council to take action and condemn Iran for its actions. In response, Iran’s UN envoy defended their actions as an exercise of their inherent right to self-defense, asserting that they do not seek escalation or war but will respond to any perceived threat or aggression. The Secretary-General reiterated his condemnation of the strikes and emphasized the need to step back from the brink, highlighting the urgent need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza to prevent a famine.

In conclusion, the situation in the Middle East remains precarious, with the threat of further conflict looming. The appeal for de-escalation and humanitarian action highlights the pressing need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in the region.