UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday called for the immediate de-escalation of the Israeli-Iranian conflict and for an ensuing ceasefire.
"I remain profoundly alarmed by the ongoing military escalation in the Middle East between Israel and Iran. I reiterate my call for immediate de-escalation leading to a ceasefire," said Guterres in a statement.
He warned against the expansion of the conflict, involving other countries.
"I strongly appeal to all to avoid any further internationalization of the conflict. Any additional military interventions could have enormous consequences, not only for those involved but for the whole region and for international peace and security at large."
Guterres condemned the strikes that have caused the tragic and unnecessary loss of lives and injuries to civilians and damage to homes and critical civilian infrastructure.
He said diplomacy remains the best and only way to address concerns regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional security issues.
"The UN Charter remains our shared framework to save people from the scourge of war," he said. "I urge all (UN) member states to comply fully with the charter and international law, including international humanitarian law."
Israel on Friday launched surprise attacks on Iran, including its nuclear facilities. Iran immediately retaliated by launching missile and drone attacks on Israel. The two countries have traded strikes on a daily basis since then.
