United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the Middle East is being “pushed to breaking point”, with shipping attacks, rising oil prices and widening humanitarian crisis. Guterres urged all combatants must cease hostilities, uphold international law, protect civilians and make an immediate return to the negotiating table. “Around the world, we hear much talk of peace, but we see far too little of it,” Guterres said. “The region and the world desperately need an off-ramp”, Guterres said, adding, de-escalation and dialogue are the only way out. “As always, the most vulnerable are being hurt first and worst,” the UN chief said.

Source: Punch March 13, 2026 10:13 UTC