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António Guterres has called for serious negotiations between the United States and Iran, warning that respect for international law is being trampled upon.
He spoke to reporters at the United Nations headquarters in New York City on Tuesday.
Guterres said humanitarian and legal obligations were being ignored in the Middle East and elsewhere, fueling “chaos, suffering and destruction”.
He said respect for international law will be key to his visit to the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
The crisis has caused widespread devastation, disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and left thousands of seafarers stranded.
“Justice should be blind, but today too many choose to turn a blind eye to justice itself.
“Across the world – and especially in the Middle East – respect for international law is being trampled upon.
“This is not the time to retreat from international law. It is the time to reaffirm it,” he said.
The ICJ, celebrating its 80th anniversary, remains a pillar of the international legal system, which Guterres said “has fulfilled this role with distinction”.
However, he said the visit “does not simply commemorate an anniversary, but sends an unmistakable message.
“A message that the United Nations firmly supports institutions that protect peace, justice, sovereignty and human dignity.
“The message that international law applies to all states, without exception, and that compliance with its rules is not optional.”
Without it, he warned, “instability spreads, mistrust deepens and conflicts spiral out of control.”
According to him, there is no military solution and lasting commitment and political will are needed to sustain peace.
He urged the resumption of negotiations and respect for navigation rights, including in the Strait of Hormuz.
He said: “It’s time for moderation and responsibility.
“It’s time to use diplomacy instead of escalation. It’s time for a renewed commitment to international law.”
