UN Chief Guterres Urges Global Dialogue as Middle East Crisis Deepens

Addis Ababa, June 11, 2026 (ENA) —United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an urgent global recommitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and political solutions.

 António also warned that escalating conflicts across the Middle East pose growing threats to international peace, economic stability, and global security.

Speaking at the United Nations Security Council's open debate on "Advancing Political Solutions in the Middle East: Mediation for Dialogue and Lasting Peace," Guterres said the region is facing a dangerous period of escalating violence whose consequences extend far beyond its borders.

"The Middle East is being pulled deeper into crisis, and the consequences reach far beyond the region," Guterres warned.

He also expressed concern that recent developments could trigger a broader resurgence of conflict and further destabilize an already volatile region.

The Secretary-General noted that rising tensions are disrupting trade routes, driving up food and fuel prices, worsening displacement crises, and creating economic shocks that are disproportionately affecting vulnerable countries and communities around the world.

Addressing the situation in Lebanon, Guterres highlighted the growing humanitarian toll of intensified military operations and cross-border attacks, which have resulted in civilian casualties, extensive destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of more than one million people.

He called for an immediate diplomatic settlement and urged all parties to uphold ceasefire commitments and prevent further escalation.

 Guterres also reiterated support for continued international efforts aimed at maintaining stability and protecting civilians.

Turning to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the UN chief stressed that lasting peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without addressing the root causes of one of the world's longest-running disputes.

 

He reaffirmed the United Nations' longstanding support for a two-state solution based on international law and relevant UN resolutions.

"The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has gone unresolved for decades. It's time to get serious about the only credible way forward," he said.

Guterres expressed alarm over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, where millions continue to face severe shortages of food, water, healthcare, shelter, and other essential services.

The Secretary-General also cautioned against rising tensions in the Gulf region, noting that attacks on critical infrastructure and disruptions to international shipping routes are generating significant economic consequences worldwide.

Restrictions affecting navigation through strategic waterways have contributed to higher energy costs, supply-chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and mounting challenges for developing economies.

He called for renewed diplomatic engagement, adherence to international law, and meaningful negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and strengthening regional security.

Guterres further highlighted encouraging progress in Syria after years of devastating conflict but emphasized that sustainable peace will require continued international support, inclusive governance, reconciliation, and reconstruction efforts.

In Yemen, he pointed to a recent agreement that secured the release of 1,600 conflict-related detainees as evidence that mediation can produce tangible results.

Nevertheless, he warned that significant challenges remain and urged all parties to continue pursuing peaceful solutions.

Concluding his remarks, Guterres underscored the central role of diplomacy in resolving conflicts around the world.

"Dialogue is our best and only hope for peace," he told the Security Council.

The UN chief called on member states to intensify efforts toward the peaceful resolution of conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan, and other crisis-affected regions.

He further emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through negotiation, cooperation, and respect for international law.

Reaffirming the United Nations' commitment to mediation and conflict prevention, Guterres urged the Security Council to fully support efforts aimed at securing a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East.

"There is no alternative, and there is no time to waste," he concluded.