UN Chief António Guterres Calls For Immediate Cessation Of Fighting And Renewed Negotiations On Iran Nuclear Programme

The bombing of Iranian nuclear sites by the United States has been described by UN Secretary-General António Guterres as a "perilous turn" in an already troubled region. He emphasised that the Middle East cannot endure another cycle of destruction and warned against a spiral of retaliatory actions.

Guterres highlighted the importance of diplomacy to prevent further escalation. He called for immediate and decisive actions to stop the fighting and urged a return to serious negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme. Protecting civilians and ensuring safe maritime navigation are also crucial, he noted.

The Secretary-General stressed the need for a credible, comprehensive, and verifiable solution that restores trust. This includes granting full access to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors, as they are the UN's technical authority in this field. He underscored the significance of the Non-Proliferation Treaty as a cornerstone of global peace and security.

Guterres urged Iran to fully respect this treaty and reminded all Member States to adhere to their obligations under the UN Charter and international law, including humanitarian law. The United Nations is prepared to support efforts towards a peaceful resolution, but peace must be chosen willingly, not imposed.

The Secretary-General presented two paths: one leading to wider conflict, human suffering, and harm to international order; the other towards de-escalation through diplomacy and dialogue. He made it clear which path is preferable, urging the Security Council and all Member States to act with reason, restraint, and urgency.

In his remarks before the Emergency Meeting held by the Security Council, Guterres stated: "From the outset of the crisis, I have repeatedly condemned any military escalation in the Middle East. The people of the region cannot endure another cycle of destruction. And yet, we now risk descending into a rathole of retaliation after retaliation."

He concluded by stressing that giving up on peace is not an option. The choice between war and peace is stark but clear. The international community must act decisively to halt hostilities and engage in meaningful dialogue.

With inputs from WAM