António Guterres stated on Tuesday that “It is time to prioritize diplomacy rather than escalation,” as the continuing war in the Middle East fuels tensions and challenges international rules.
The UN chief warned that international law is openly being undermined today, with “ignored rules” and civilians facing “unbearable suffering.”
He emphasized that “justice is supposed to be blind. But today, too many choose to turn a blind eye to justice itself,” he added during a press briefing near the Security Council in New York.
According to him, “respect for international law is dwindling” worldwide, “particularly glaringly in the Middle East.” He also mentioned “violated humanitarian obligations” and protections afforded to the United Nations being “disregarded.”
“The absence of law leads to destruction,” he warned, pointing out the general attack on international law.
Guterres announced he would visit The Hague to mark the 80th anniversary of the International Court of Justice. He stressed, “The ICJ is the UN’s chief judicial body and a pillar of the international legal order.”
In a world marked by “increased fragmentation” and “heightened power rivalry,” he added that “international law is essential.”
Regarding the Middle East, Guterres urged a return to “serious negotiations” and the maintenance and possible extension of the ceasefire. He stressed the importance of prioritizing diplomacy over escalation.
He noted the ongoing discussions between the United States and Iran, calling for the talks to continue, even though a quick solution to the complex and longstanding problem should not be expected.
Guterres mentioned the allocation of $12 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to provide “effective” humanitarian assistance to populations in urgent need in Iran.
He also addressed the talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington, tempering expectations but underlining the importance of creating conditions for a change in the actors’ behaviors.
Guterres highlighted the deeply destabilizing dynamic between Israel and Hezbollah, affecting Lebanon, and called for a change in approach to prevent further violence.
He concluded by issuing a clear call to renew commitment to international law.
Context: António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, expressed concern about the erosion of international law, particularly in the context of conflicts in the Middle East and between Israel and Hezbollah.
Fact Check: The content in the article is a neutral reporting of statements made by António Guterres and does not contain any added opinions or biases.
