UN Secretary-General Urges US-Iran Talks to Persist
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
United Nations, April 14 (NationPress) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urges the continuation of negotiations between the United States and Iran, according to a statement from his spokesperson.
Despite the absence of a formal agreement during the talks in Islamabad, hosted by Pakistan, the discussions highlighted the seriousness of both parties' engagement and represented a significant step forward in fostering renewed dialogue, noted Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson.
"Considering the deeply entrenched differences, a resolution will not come quickly, and the secretary-general encourages ongoing constructive dialogue to facilitate an agreement," he stated.
In light of recent destruction and turmoil, the spokesperson emphasized that a military resolution to the ongoing conflict is unattainable.
Furthermore, it is imperative to uphold a ceasefire, with Dujarric asserting that all violations must cease, as reported by Xinhua.
The secretary-general reiterated the necessity for all parties involved in the conflict to honor freedom of navigation, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, adhering to international law.
Disruptions to maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz have had repercussions extending beyond the immediate region, contributing to heightened global economic instability and insecurity across various sectors, the spokesperson pointed out.
The interruption of fertilizer supplies and its components worsens food insecurity for millions of vulnerable individuals worldwide, further exacerbating the escalating cost of living, driven by fuel, transportation, and supply chain issues.
Guterres emphasized that all involved must respect the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, in accordance with international law.
This crucial maritime route, located south of Iran, connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
The US has announced plans to blockade vessels entering and departing Iranian ports, effective as of Monday.
Additionally, around 20,000 seafarers remain stranded on ships in the Persian Gulf, facing escalating hardships daily, as highlighted in the UN statement.