UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday expressed deep concern over the renewed escalation of hostilities in West Asia, calling on all parties to immediately cease attacks, exercise maximum restraint, and avoid actions that could further inflame the volatile situation.
Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Farhan Haq, Guterres urged all parties to fully adhere to existing ceasefires in Lebanon, Iran, and Gaza. He stressed the need to avoid any steps that could undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts. The UN chief specifically voiced concern over Israel's decision to close crossings into Gaza, reiterating the urgent need for their immediate reopening to ensure the rapid, safe, and unhindered passage of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout the region.
Respect for International Law
Guterres underscored that navigational rights and freedoms, as per international law, must be respected. He called on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law and take all feasible precautions to protect civilians. Emphasizing that there is no military solution to the conflicts in West Asia, he stated, "The only way forward is through dialogue and negotiations." He urged all concerned parties to work towards diplomatic solutions that advance regional and international peace and security.
US President Trump's Optimistic Projections
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump asserted that the United States would achieve "total victory" over Iran within the next fortnight, expressing confidence that a new nuclear deal is within reach, according to a CNN report. This projection came as Iran and Israel stepped back from a volatile weekend of retaliatory military strikes. Trump made these claims during a campaign tele-rally, using the platform to generate momentum for Senator Lindsey Graham, who faces a competitive Republican primary election.
Backroom Diplomacy with Tehran
Trump detailed that backroom diplomacy with Tehran was yielding significant results, with the other side willing to capitulate to Washington's key strategic demands. "We're negotiating now, and they want to make a very good deal. They're willing to give us everything, they're willing to give us no nuclear weapon," Trump said. Linking the resolution of the geopolitical standoff to domestic economic relief, the US president predicted an imminent breakthrough that would reshape global energy markets.
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