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UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday called for full respect of international law and warned that its erosion, particularly in the Middle East, could deepen global instability and conflict.
Speaking at a press briefing at UN headquarters in New York, Guterres said respect for international law is being increasingly undermined. He stressed that rules governing the use of force and the conduct of hostilities are often ignored, warning that such trends risk spiraling conflicts out of control.
He described international law as “indispensable,” adding that without it, mistrust grows and instability spreads. Guterres emphasized that there is no military solution to ongoing crises and said peace agreements require sustained engagement and political will.
He urged that ceasefires must be preserved and called for the resumption of serious negotiations to restore diplomatic progress.
The UN chief also stressed that international navigational rights and freedoms, including those in the Strait of Hormuz, must be respected by all parties.
On regional diplomacy, Guterres said there are indications that US-Iran talks could resume and referenced his recent communication with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
He also described talks between Israel and Lebanon as important for stabilizing the region and improving conditions on the ground.