United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a stark warning over the rapidly worsening situation in the Middle East, cautioning that escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran could lead to a full-scale conflict.
Speaking at a UN Security Council session focused on mediation and dialogue in the region, Guterres said the crisis is deepening at an alarming pace, with consequences that extend far beyond the Middle East.“The Middle East is being pulled deeper into crisis, and the consequences reach far beyond the region,” he said. “This week has brought wider attacks and further deterioration. I am profoundly concerned that it could trigger a full resumption of conflict.”The UN chief warned that continued instability could have serious global repercussions, including disruptions to the world economy, supply chains, and rising food prices.
Addressing the situation in Lebanon, Guterres noted a significant escalation in recent months, with Israel intensifying military operations inside Lebanese territory while Hezbollah has expanded its attacks deeper into Israel.He urged all sides to pursue diplomacy and respect Lebanon’s sovereignty, calling for adherence to relevant UN Security Council resolutions.“I appeal to all parties to implement the ceasefire agreements.
No more attacks. No more excuses,” he stressed.The remarks come amid rising hostilities following US strikes on Iranian air defence systems, radar installations, and command centres near the Strait of Hormuz. Washington said the overnight operation was carried out in self-defence after a US Army Apache helicopter was downed.In retaliation, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it launched heavy attacks on US air and naval bases in the region, describing the strikes as a response to what it termed American aggression.The developments follow a fresh exchange of strikes between Israel and Iran on Sunday — the first since a fragile ceasefire took effect in April. Although both sides agreed to halt attacks on Monday, fears remain that the situation could quickly spiral out of control
