In Egypt, Guterres warns against Iran-US escalation

“ I want to send a loud and clear message to the parties. We need maximum restraint and diplomatic solutions ,” he said.

“If the sabre-rattling we are witnessing now translates itself into a major escalation, the situation in the region can get out of control.”

Moreover, navigational rights and freedoms must be fully restored in and around the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait at the mouth of the Red Sea – critical maritime corridors for global trade.

He commended Egypt for its mediation role in helping to create the conditions for dialogue between the sides.

‘Keep the channels of diplomacy open’

The Secretary-General was speaking alongside Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty following meetings focused on this and other crises in the Middle East and Africa.

“Egypt is a pillar of multilateralism,” he said. “And at a time when divisions are deepening, it is critical to keep the channels of diplomacy open .”

On Gaza, Mr.…