UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed grave concern over the United States’ military strikes on Iran, warning that the move risks triggering a wider regional conflict with “catastrophic consequences.”
In a strongly worded statement shared on social media, the UN chief described the use of force by the US against Iranian nuclear facilities as a “dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge,” and called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint.
“I am gravely alarmed by the use of force by the United States against Iran today. This is a dangerous escalation… and a direct threat to international peace and security,” Guterres said.
He warned that the situation in the Middle East could quickly spiral out of control. “There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control — with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world,” he added.
Guterres urged all UN Member States to avoid further provocation and to act in accordance with international law. “I call on Member States to de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law. At this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos.”
Reiterating the UN’s long-standing position on conflict resolution, the Secretary-General emphasised that military action is not a viable solution. “There is no military solution. The only path forward is diplomacy. The only hope is peace,” he said.
The remarks come after the United States carried out precision strikes on Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites, prompting widespread concern from world leaders and international organisations.
While the US has claimed the strikes were aimed at halting Iran’s nuclear programme, Iran has condemned the attacks as a violation of its sovereignty and international law.
