Addressing reporters outside the United Nations Headquarters in New York security councilAntonio Guterres Said Humanitarian and other legal obligations are being disregarded in the Middle East and elsewhere, causing chaos, suffering and destruction.
He said upholding international law would be a central theme of his visit this week to the UN’s highest tribunal in The Hague. International Court of JusticeAmid hopes of renewed talks between Iran and the United States.
The crisis has caused death and destruction across the region, blocked shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, vital to global trade in fuel, fertilizer and gas, and left thousands of workers stranded on ships in the open sea.
Reconfirm, don’t back out
“Justice means being blind. But today, too many people are choosing to turn a blind eye to justice itself,” the UN chief said.
“Around the world – and clearly in the Middle East – respect for international law is being crushed.”
He stressed that “This is not the time to retreat from international law. This is the time to reaffirm it.”
message to the world
icj – also known as the World Court – celebrates its 80th anniversary this week.
The principal judicial organ of the United Nations is a pillar of the international legal order and has “fulfilled that role with distinction” during this period.
However, the visit “is not just about celebrating an anniversary. It is about sending an unmistakable message,” he said.
He added, “It is a message that the United Nations stands firmly behind the institutions and principles designed to protect peace, justice, sovereignty and human dignity.”
“A message that international law applies to all states without exception, and respect for its rules is not optional. A message that In a world moving toward greater fragmentation and intense power competition, international law is indispensable.”
appeal for restraint
The Secretary-General warned that “without it, instability spreads, mistrust deepens, and conflicts spiral out of control” – a position that applies everywhere, but more immediately to the conflict in the Middle East.
He reiterated his stance that there is There is no military solution to the crisisSaying that peace agreements require sustained engagement and political will.
He stressed that serious negotiations must resume, while international navigation rights and freedoms – including within the Strait of Hormuz – must be respected by all parties.
“This is a time of restraint and responsibility,” He said.
“This is a time to step up diplomacy. This is a time for a renewed commitment to international law.”
