UN Secretary-General Guterres Calls for Immediate End to Middle East War
Antonio Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, stated that the war in the Middle East has “spiraled out of control” after more than three weeks, urging the United States and Israel to immediately cease hostilities. He emphasized that the continuation of the war has intensified human suffering, increased civilian casualties, and expanded devastating economic consequences worldwide.
Guterres warned that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt the flow of oil, gas, and chemical fertilizers, threatening global energy and food security. He noted that with the planting season approaching in many countries, a shortage of fertilizers could lead to a food crisis and even famine in some areas, as Gulf countries are among the primary suppliers of raw materials for nitrogen-based fertilizers.
The UN Secretary-General recalled that he had warned of the risk of uncontrollable escalation only hours after the war began. He now says the conflict has crossed boundaries even leaders did not anticipate and the world is on the brink of a broader war and a severe economic shock.
Referring to his communications with various officials and figures in the region and globally, Guterres said that several initiatives for dialogue and peace are underway and must succeed. He also appointed Jean Arnault as his personal envoy to lead the United Nations’ efforts related to the crisis and its repercussions.
Following his recent visit to Lebanon, the Secretary-General also called for a halt to the fighting there, stressing that Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel and Israel’s military operations in Lebanon must stop. He warned against the “Gaza pattern” repeating in Lebanon, as civilians bear the heaviest toll.
According to Guterres, global markets have become unsettled, and humanitarian operations face restrictions. He underscored that the impact of the crisis falls hardest on the poorest and most vulnerable populations, who have no role in the conflict.
Guterres made the solution clear: an “immediate end to the war.” He stated that war is not a solution and that only through diplomacy, peace, and full respect for international law can this situation be overcome.
