UN Chief Guterres Calls for Immediate Halt to Israel-Iran Escalation: 'Time to Stop'
In a brief statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Guterres wrote: “Israeli bombardment of Iranian nuclear sites. Iranian missile strikes in Tel Aviv. Enough escalation. Time to stop. Peace and diplomacy must prevail.”
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a stark warning late Friday, urging all parties involved in the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran to immediately de-escalate and return to diplomatic channels.
In a brief statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Guterres wrote: “Israeli bombardment of Iranian nuclear sites. Iranian missile strikes in Tel Aviv. Enough escalation. Time to stop. Peace and diplomacy must prevail.”
Israeli bombardment of Iranian nuclear sites.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) June 13, 2025
Iranian missile strikes in Tel Aviv.
Enough escalation.
Time to stop.
Peace and diplomacy must prevail.
The message came amid a rapidly deteriorating situation following Israel’s massive airstrikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure and Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks that struck parts of central Israel, including Tel Aviv. The violence has already resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with widespread international concern over the potential for a broader regional war.
Guterres’ call adds to a chorus of international voices, including UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, who have called for restraint and warned of catastrophic consequences if the current trajectory continues.
The Secretary-General has consistently advocated for a diplomatic resolution to the Iran nuclear issue and broader regional tensions, warning that military action risks irreparable harm to global peace and security.
