Gutierrez calls for an immediate ceasefire for Mei to return to the diplomatic track

On 3 September, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Guterres, through his spokesperson, expressed grave concern at the renewed exchange of fire between the United States and Iran and called on both sides to immediately cease military action and return to the diplomatic track as soon as possible. Gutierrez was deeply shocked by reports of civilian casualties, including reports of attacks on a wedding in Iran. He condemned all attacks against civilians and stressed the need for all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and prevention. Gutierrez noted that the situation in the region had escalated to a number of countries and that airspace and vital shipping routes continued to be severely affected. Further escalation of the situation will have disastrous consequences for the civilian population, the region as a whole and beyond. Gutierrez indicated that the escalation of the situation in the Middle East had had a serious impact on the civilian population and further exacerbated humanitarian needs and relief pressures in the region and beyond. There is a risk of further deterioration when humanitarian operations on the ground are already overloaded and underfunded. The United Nations and its humanitarian partners continue to provide assistance within their capabilities. Gutierrez once again calls upon all parties concerned to exercise restraint, refrain from actions and rhetoric that could further exacerbate tensions, and urges the United States and Iran to return to the diplomatic track as soon as possible. He stressed that only through dialogue could a comprehensive and lasting solution be reached. (In Russian)