UN Secretary-General says, Middle East war ‘has spiraled out of control’

2026-03-25 - 17:23

UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned on Wednesday that the war in the Middle East has spiraled beyond control, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomacy. Speaking at the United Nations headquarters in New York, Guterres said the conflict has surpassed even the gravest expectations and now threatens to ignite a wider global crisis. He stressed that continued escalation risks catastrophic consequences, including expanding warfare, mounting human suffering, and severe economic disruption worldwide. Guterres called on Iran to halt attacks on neighboring countries, noting that the UN Security Council has already condemned such actions and demanded an end to them, reports Arab News. He also underscored the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that its prolonged closure is disrupting the flow of oil, gas, and fertilizers during a critical global planting season. Addressing both the United States and Israel, he urged an end to the war, highlighting the worsening humanitarian toll and rising civilian casualties. “This has gone too far,” he said, calling for an end to escalation and a renewed commitment to international law and diplomatic solutions. The UN chief revealed that he remains in close contact with regional and global stakeholders, with several peace initiatives underway. He also announced the appointment of Jean Arnault as his personal envoy to advance diplomatic efforts related to the conflict. Guterres pointed to the devastating humanitarian impact across the region, particularly on civilians. Following a recent visit to Lebanon, he warned against further deterioration, urging both Hezbollah and Israel to cease hostilities. He cautioned against replicating the situation seen in Gaza Strip in Lebanon. He further warned of escalating global repercussions, with markets under strain and humanitarian operations facing increasing challenges. The burden, he said, is falling disproportionately on the world’s poorest and most vulnerable populations. Concluding his remarks, Guterres stressed that ending the war is the only viable path forward. “War is not the answer,” he said. “Diplomacy, respect for international law, and peace are the only ways out of this crisis.”