António Guterres has called on the United States and Israel to bring an end to their ongoing war with Iran, warning that the conflict risks spiralling “out of control” with devastating consequences.
Speaking at a summit in Brussels, Guterres cautioned that continued escalation could have “potential tragic consequences” not only for civilians but also for the global economy.
“To the United States and to Israel: it’s high time to end this war that is risking get completely out of control,” he said, while also urging Iran to halt attacks on neighbouring countries not directly involved in the conflict.
The war, widely referred to as the “2026 Iran War,” began on February 28 and has since escalated into a full-scale regional confrontation. Now in its third week, the conflict has been marked by sustained military operations and mounting casualties.
Recent developments include Israeli strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field, the largest gas field in the world. In retaliation, Iran has reportedly launched missile attacks targeting energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
The United States, under Donald Trump, has taken a firm stance, warning of further escalation if Iranian strikes continue against regional energy assets.
Casualty figures are reportedly high, with over 1,400 deaths recorded in Iran alone, including senior figures, and thousands more injured across affected regions.
The conflict is said to have been triggered by coordinated strikes by the US and Israel targeting Iranian missile systems and leadership. Reports also indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed early in the war and succeeded by his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Fighting has extended beyond Iran’s borders, with clashes reported in Lebanon involving Hezbollah forces, further widening the conflict.
The war has also triggered major global economic concerns, particularly due to disruptions in oil supply linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy shipments.
What you should know
The ongoing war between the US, Israel, and Iran represents one of the most dangerous geopolitical crises in recent years.
Its expansion across multiple countries and its impact on vital energy infrastructure have raised fears of a prolonged global economic shock.
The involvement of major powers and the targeting of oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz could significantly affect fuel prices and international trade, making diplomatic intervention increasingly urgent to prevent a broader global conflict.
