'Deeply alarmed': UN chief calls for 'immediate stop' to renewed attacks in Middle East, urges dialogue

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the renewed escalation of tensions in the Middle East, urging all parties to immediately stop attacks and avoid actions that could further destabilise the region.In an X post, Guterres stressed that ongoing ceasefires in Lebanon, Iran and Gaza must be fully respected and preserved.“All attacks must stop immediately. The ceasefires in Lebanon, Iran & Gaza must be fully respected.” His remarks come amid heightened tensions across the region.Israel and Iran exchanged fresh attacks on Monday in their first direct confrontation since an April ceasefire.Both sides later agreed to halt the exchange after US President Donald Trump urged them to stop, though neither ruled out future military action.UN chief calls for aid access, civilian protectionGuterres also criticised Israel's decision to close crossings into Gaza, reiterating his call for their immediate reopening to facilitate the rapid, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.“The exercise of navigational rights & freedoms, in accordance with international law, must be respected. “He emphasised the need for aid to reach civilians across Gaza at scale amid the continuing humanitarian crisis.Highlighting the importance of international law, Guterres said all parties must uphold their legal obligations and take every feasible precaution to protect civilians."There is no military solution to the conflicts in the Middle East," Guterres said, urging all concerned parties to pursue dialogue and negotiations instead of confrontation. He called for renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at advancing regional stability, peace and international security.Despite a US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that has been in place since October 2025, both sides continue to accuse each other of violations.