UN Secretary-General António Guterres made an urgent plea Thursday for the United States and Israel to immediately halt their military campaign against Iran, warning that the conflict, now in its 20th day, is at risk of spiralling “completely out of control” with devastating consequences for civilians and the global economy.
Speaking to reporters at an EU summit in Brussels, Guterres directly addressed the warring parties:
“To the United States and to Israel: it’s high time to end this war that is risking get completely out of control.”
He also called on Iran:
“To Iran, stop attacking your neighbours. They were never parties to the conflict.”
The appeal comes amid rapid escalation since coordinated US-Israeli strikes began on February 28, 2026, targeting Iranian missile systems and senior leadership — including the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran retaliated with missile barrages against Israel and energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, while effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for one-fifth of global oil supply.
