Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern over the ongoing and expanding military escalation between Iran and the United States—a crisis now in its second week—centered on control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for oil and liquefied natural gas exports.
The escalation followed the collapse of a previous agreement to end months of fighting, including joint US-Israeli bombings of Iran and subsequent Iranian counterstrikes. Guterres has consistently urged diplomatic engagement, with ongoing efforts by his Personal Envoy, Jean Arnault, and mediation led by Pakistan and others.
The renewed conflict has affected ten countries: Iran, Bahrain, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates. These developments are increasing pressure on trade systems, humanitarian access, transport costs, and fuel and basic commodity prices across the region and beyond.
Guterres voiced particular concern over attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as a nuclear power plant and a desalination plant in Iran, as well as power and desalination plants in Kuwait and other locations. The United Nations has called such attacks unacceptable and demanded their immediate cessation.
The Secretary-General reiterated that there is no military solution and stressed the need to intensify diplomatic efforts toward a peaceful settlement. This should include full restoration of international navigational rights and freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz. Vital civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and water supplies, must be protected during the conflict.
The UN again urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law, observing principles such as distinction, proportionality, and precaution to minimize harm to civilians.