UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of a 'wider war' as Middle East conflict enters its second month. Speaking in New York, Guterres described a rapidly deteriorating situation with Israel and the US bombing Iran while Tehran attacks neighboring Gulf States and threatens shipping through the crucial Strait of Hormuz.
"Every day this war continues, human suffering grows. The scale of devastation grows. Indiscriminate attacks grow," Guterres stated. He emphasized that impacts now extend beyond the region, disrupting global navigation and affecting world economy, particularly vulnerable societies dependent on energy imports.
Guterres announced dispatching his Personal Envoy Jean Arnault to the region for peace initiatives, urging diplomatic efforts receive support. He stressed any resolution must anchor in international law and the UN Charter.
The UN chief directly addressed combatants: "To the United States and Israel, it is high time to stop the war that is inflicting immense human suffering and already triggering devastating economic consequences." Iran must stop attacking neighbors, he added.
Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jassim Albudaiwi condemned Iranian attacks on vital civilian infrastructure including airports, oil facilities, and diplomatic missions. The GCC considers these violations of member state sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Syria faces immense humanitarian needs after 180,000 nationals and 25,000 Lebanese returned since the war erupted. Over one million people have been displaced in Lebanon amid Israeli-Hezbollah clashes, shattering critical infrastructure.