UN Secretary-General Expresses Concern Over Renewed Military Clashes in the Arabian Gulf Region

New York, July 13 (KUNA) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern today, Monday, over the serious escalation and the resumption of military confrontations in the Arabian Gulf region, including Iranian attacks on neighboring countries and vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as US strikes on Iran. In a press statement, Guterres stressed the need to halt all such attacks, calling on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid any steps that could heighten tensions, and take immediate action to de-escalate the situation. He reiterated that a return to large-scale hostilities would have catastrophic consequences for the peoples of the region, for international peace and security, and for the global economy. The UN Secretary-General reaffirmed the necessity of restoring full freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and urged Iran and the United States to resume negotiations as soon as possible and to address outstanding issues through diplomatic channels. (End) E.S.T. / M.A.H.A.