The United Nations has called for restraint amid growing international concern over the risk of war between the United States and Iran following renewed military threats and warnings.
UN Secretary General António Guterres urged all parties to avoid actions that could inflame tensions, saying disputes involving Iran should be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue.
Speaking at UN headquarters in New York, spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said Guterres remained convinced that negotiations were the best way to address concerns surrounding Iran. He also welcomed efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and strengthening confidence-building measures in the region.
The appeal follows comments by US President Donald Trump, who said the United States had deployed a “big armada” close to Iran, while suggesting Tehran may still be willing to negotiate.
Iranian officials, however, have warned that any US military strike would provoke serious repercussions. Tehran said the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln to the Middle East would not deter the country from defending itself.
An unnamed senior US official said Washington remained open to talks if Iran reached out.
In a further escalation, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander warned neighbouring countries against allowing their territory to be used for attacks on Iran.
“Neighbouring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying.
The US previously staged a major military build-up in the region in June before carrying out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, heightening fears of a broader regional conflict.
