UN Calls for Immediate Halt After Renewed U.S.-Iran Exchange of Fire

Overview

• A renewed overnight exchange of fire between the United States and Iran prompted the United Nations to express grave concern and call for an immediate cessation of military action.
• UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the secretary-general is deeply alarmed by reported civilian casualties, including a strike that reportedly hit a wedding, while noting those reports are under verification.
• The secretary-general condemned attacks on civilians and reminded all parties of obligations under international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution.
• The UN warned that further escalation is likely to worsen already overstretched and underfunded humanitarian operations and that regional airspace and critical shipping routes are being heavily affected.
• Guterres urged the United States and Iran to return urgently to diplomacy, noting the UN can press for restraint and negotiation but cannot enforce compliance on the parties involved.