United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a grave warning that the violent conflict between Iran and Israel risks spiraling into an uncontrollable regional catastrophe.
Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Friday, Guterres described the situation as racing toward crisis rather than drifting toward it, stating “This is a moment that could shape the fate of nations.” He emphasized that “The expansion of this conflict could ignite a fire no one can control.”
The warning comes as Israel’s military campaign inside Iran intensifies, with over 100 targets struck including nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan and the Khondab heavy water reactor.
Iranian officials report at least 224 civilian deaths with some estimates twice as high, and more than 2,500 injured. Major cities like Tehran are experiencing mass displacements, fuel shortages and widespread panic.
Iran has responded with missile strikes on Israeli cities including Tel Aviv, Haifa and Beersheba, damaging critical civilian sites like Soroka Medical Center and the Weizmann research institute. Israeli authorities confirm 24 deaths and over 900 injuries from the attacks.
The conflict’s regional fallout continues to expand, with Yemen’s Houthi forces targeting Israel and Palestinian territories, while armed groups in Iraq are reportedly mobilizing.
Guterres made an urgent plea for de-escalation, urging both parties to give diplomacy a chance. He reiterated the need for full Iranian cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The Secretary-General’s remarks highlight unprecedented risks as nuclear facilities become active battlegrounds, with global security and economic stability hanging in the balance. Diplomatic efforts continue but with both sides vowing further retaliation, the crisis enters its most dangerous phase yet.
