UN chief warns of Middle East escalation, urges US, Iran to resume talks

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks during a press conference at the Japan National Press Club in Tokyo, Japan, on May 20, 2026. [David Mareuil - Anadolu Agency]https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AA-20260520-41437965-41437935-UN_SECRETARYGENERAL_ANTONIO_GUTERRES_PRESS_CONFERENCE_IN_TOKYO.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 15px;" width="1200" />
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the serious escalation and renewed military confrontation in the Gulf region, including Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and neighbouring countries, as well as US strikes on Iran.

In a statement, Guterres said all such attacks must stop immediately.

He called on all parties “to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalatory action and take immediate steps to de-escalate.” Guterres reiterated that a return to full-scale hostilities would have catastrophic consequences “for the peoples of the region” and beyond, as well as the global economy.”    He also stressed the need to restore “full freedom of navigation” through the Strait of Hormuz and urged Iran and the United States to resume […]

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