Guterres welcomes US-Iran peace deal as ‘critical step’ toward ending conflict

UN Secretary General António Guterres welcomed on Sunday a new peace deal between the United States and Iran, calling it a “critical step” toward ending the conflict.

According to a statement issued by his Spokesman, the agreement provides for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and a framework for further negotiations.

The Secretary‑General expressed “deep appreciation” for the role of Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and other regional countries in supporting the talks.

He said he hopes the parties will build on the momentum and “redouble their efforts” toward a final resolution. He also reaffirmed that the United Nations stands ready to support efforts toward a “durable and comprehensive peace.”

The conflict began in late February with US and Israeli strikes across Iran. Iran responded with attacks on Israel and US‑allied states in the Gulf. 

The fighting led to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane through which about 20 per cent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes.

Despite a ceasefire agreed in April, the United States and Iran have exchanged intermittent fire, including two rounds of tit‑for‑tat strikes this week.

Earlier on Sunday, Mr. Guterres strongly condemned Israeli airstrikes on Beirut. In a separate statement, he said the strikes took place despite a ceasefire and at a time when Washington and Tehran were expected to reach an agreement to help pave the way to peace.

He warned that the conflict is having a “devastating impact” on the global economy and urged all parties to show “maximum restraint” at a crucial moment. He also expressed hope for a successful outcome to ongoing efforts by the United States and Iran.

The crisis in Lebanon is part of unrest across the wider region. It erupted on 2 March, just days after the US and Israel began bombing Iran, prompting Hezbollah militants in Lebanon to fire on Israel. 

This story is adapted from UN News