Photo: FABRICE COFFRINI / AFP / Getty Images
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has issued a stark warning about the escalating conflict in the Middle East, cautioning that the war involving Iran could "spiral beyond anyone’s control." On Thursday (March 5), the UN chief addressed the Security Council, emphasizing the grave threat to international peace and security due to the ongoing military actions.
"All the unlawful attacks in the Middle East and beyond are causing tremendous suffering and harm to civilians throughout the region – and pose a grave a risk to the global economy, particularly to the most vulnerable people," he wrote on X.
The conflict, now in its sixth day, has seen a series of strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The violence has spread across the region, affecting countries such as Bahrain, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates. Reports indicate significant civilian casualties, with Iranian airstrikes targeting cities like Tehran and Isfahan, and retaliatory strikes impacting Israel and other Gulf states.
Guterres highlighted the need for de-escalation and urged all parties to respect international law and protect civilians. He emphasized that peaceful settlement through dialogue is the only viable solution. The conflict has disrupted diplomatic efforts, with talks between the US and Iran being derailed.