Guterres: Middle East War Enters Its Second Month with Warnings of Humanitarian Crisis Escalation

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned today, Thursday, that the Middle East crisis has entered its second month amid unprecedented escalation in humanitarian suffering, calling for urgent action to contain the fallout of the conflict, according to Reuters.

Guterres confirmed that diplomatic efforts are still ongoing, emphasizing the need to support them in accordance with the UN Charter and international law, in order to reach a settlement that ends the escalation.

He stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty of nations, protecting civilians and infrastructure, as well as ensuring freedom of navigation in vital maritime corridors, amid escalating military operations.

He pointed out that choking navigation in the Strait of Hormuz poses a serious threat to the most vulnerable groups around the world, due to the potential rise in food and energy prices, and widespread economic impacts.

Guterres revealed that he has sent his personal envoy Jean Arnaud to the region in an attempt to support political efforts and open channels of dialogue between the concerned parties.

The Secretary-General called on both the United States and Israel to immediately stop the war, due to the humanitarian suffering and increasing economic repercussions it causes.

He also demanded that Iran cease attacking its neighbors and respect freedom of navigation, emphasizing that the continuation of these attacks exacerbates the regional crisis.

Guterres concluded his statements by affirming that conflicts do not end automatically, but require courageous political decisions, stressing that the option for peace is still available and should be taken without delay.