Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, welcomed the ceasefire extension, calling it an important step toward de-escalation and an opportunity for diplomacy and confidence-building between Iran and the United States. He urged all parties to refrain from actions that could undermine the ceasefire and encouraged constructive negotiations for a lasting resolution. Guterres also expressed support for Pakistan’s facilitation of talks aimed at achieving a comprehensive and durable settlement, though the status of these negotiations remains unclear.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, tensions persist in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint vital to global oil and gas supplies. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported incidents, including an attack on a cargo vessel west of Iran and heavy damage to a container ship’s bridge northeast of Oman. All crew members were reported safe in both cases. These developments have resulted in a sharp decline in maritime traffic and higher insurance costs in the region.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, described the situation as extremely volatile and condemned attacks and seizures of commercial ships as unacceptable. He called for an end to these actions and for the safe release of affected vessels and crews. Dominguez highlighted the difficult conditions faced by nearly 20,000 seafarers, referencing stress from missile threats and ongoing uncertainty, and stated that de-escalation and restoring freedom of navigation remain essential.
In Lebanon, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that a separate 10-day ceasefire has allowed tens of thousands of displaced families to start returning home. However, more than 120,000 people remain in collective shelters across the country, despite a decline in displacement, with many homes and infrastructure damaged during recent fighting.