UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a formal appeal for de-escalation during a press conference in Islamabad, Pakistan. Standing alongside Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Guterres urged all parties involved in the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran to cease hostilities. His primary requests included a return to diplomatic negotiations and the restoration of navigational rights, which he noted must be upheld in accordance with international law.

Beyond the immediate conflict, Guterres linked the prospects for regional stability to the broader issue of Palestinian self-determination. While the Secretary-General’s comments focused on international legal frameworks, he also took the opportunity to commend Pakistan for its efforts in mediating between the United States and other regional actors. The statement comes as international concern grows regarding the security of maritime shipping lanes in the region, which have been increasingly impacted by the escalating tensions between the involved nations.