UN Chief Warns US Strikes Mark Perilous Middle East Turn

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the recent US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, calling them a "perilous turn" that risks escalating into wider war and causing serious damage to the international order. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council meeting, he urged all parties to halt the fighting immediately and return to serious, sustained negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. Guterres emphasized the importance of Iran fully respecting the Non-Proliferation Treaty as a cornerstone of global peace and security, while cautioning that the region cannot endure another destructive cycle of retaliation. He highlighted the stark choice facing Israel, the US, and Iran: either pursue de-escalation through diplomacy and dialogue or face deeper human suffering and conflict. The International Atomic Energy Agency warned that the strikes have severely compromised nuclear safety in Iran, posing potential risks if the situation worsens. The UN chief called on all member states to act with reason, restraint, and urgency to prevent further escalation and preserve peace.