UN Secretary-General Urges De-Escalation After Iran’s Attack on Israel
NEW YORK — In a dramatic turn of events, Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles at Israel early on Sunday, prompting UN Secretary-General António Guterres to call for “maximum restraint” and de-escalation.
Guterres emphasized the urgent need to step back from the brink and avoid any actions that could lead to military confrontations in the volatile Middle East region. With civilians already suffering the consequences, he stressed the shared responsibility to engage all parties involved in preventing further escalation.
As tensions rise, President Joe Biden is actively working to prevent a wider war with Iran, with the White House national security spokesman John Kirby stating, “We don’t seek a war with Iran. We are not looking for escalation here.”
The US played a crucial role in helping Israel defend against Iran’s aerial assault, with Biden convening leaders of the Group of Seven countries to coordinate a global response and prevent a broader regional conflict.
Despite Iran’s intent to cause destruction and casualties, US officials revealed that 99% of the incoming weapons were successfully intercepted, averting a potential crisis. Biden reassured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Washington’s commitment to strategic decision-making to avoid further escalation.
This push for restraint echoes American efforts to curb Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza and prioritize civilian protection. The coordinated response to Iran’s attack demonstrated the readiness and capabilities of US military forces in the region.
With tensions escalating rapidly, Biden and senior officials closely monitored the situation in real time, ensuring the successful interception of drones and missiles targeting Israel. The US military’s swift response underscored its commitment to supporting allies in the face of threats.
Reflecting on the events, Biden praised the efforts of US servicemembers in aiding Israel’s defence, highlighting the strategic deployments and coordination that helped thwart the attack. The collective response showed the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis.
