New York, June 12 (QNA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the United States and Iran to redouble their efforts toward a peace agreement, stressing the importance of avoiding any further deterioration that could trigger a full resumption of the conflict.
Guterres is deeply concerned by the continuing escalation in the Middle East, including the strikes by the United States on Iran and the strikes by Iran on neighboring countries in the Gulf and beyond, and a significant increase in hostile rhetoric, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.
He emphasized the need to respect the exercise of maritime rights and freedoms in accordance with international law, and called on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law and to take all feasible precautions to protect civilians.
Dujarric noted that the only way forward is through genuine dialogue and negotiations, urging Washington and Tehran to redouble their efforts to reach a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement that advances regional and international peace and security. (QNA)