UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed concern over the renewed military confrontation in the Middle East.

The remarks were contained in a statement issued by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.

“The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the serious escalation in the Gulf and the resumption of military confrontation, including Iranian attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. strikes against Iran, and Iranian attacks against targets in neighboring states. These attacks must stop,” the statement said.

Guterres called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid further escalation, and take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation.

The statement warns that a resumption of large-scale military hostilities in the Middle East would have devastating consequences for the people of the region, as well as for international peace and security and the global economy.

“The Secretary-General calls on Iran and the United States to urgently resume negotiations and resolve all outstanding issues through diplomatic means,” the statement said.