UN Secretary-General issues statement on Iran situation condemning military escalation

On February 28, local time, UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a statement on the situation in Iran, condemning the military escalation that occurred in the Middle East that day. He urged the relevant parties to immediately stop hostilities to prevent the situation from further deteriorating. In his statement, Guterres said he condemns the military escalation that occurred in the Middle East that day. The statement said that the use of force by the United States and Israel against Iran, as well as the retaliatory actions carried out by Iran in the region thereafter, have undermined international peace and security. The Secretary-General emphasized that all Member States must comply with their obligations under international law, including the UN Charter. The UN Charter clearly prohibits “threatening with force or using force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations.” The Secretary-General called for an immediate halt to hostilities and the de-escalation of the situation. He pointed out that, if no action is taken, it could lead to a wider regional conflict and bring serious consequences for civilians and regional stability. He strongly urged all parties to immediately return to the negotiating table. The Secretary-General reiterated that, under international law, including the UN Charter, there is no viable alternative to the peaceful settlement of international disputes. The UN Charter provides the foundation for maintaining international peace and security. (CCTV News)