Amid rising US-Iran tensions, here’s how the United Nations reacted

Key Highlights

• Guterres said that the airstrikes by the United States and Israel violated international law, including the UN Charter, further condemning Iran’s retaliation for violating the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
• The UN Secretary-General reminded the council that Article Two of the UN Charter states that all Member States “shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State,” and that international law and international humanitarian law must always be respected.
• Everything must be done to prevent a further escalation in the Middle East.
• I call on all sides to strictly uphold their obligations under international law, including the @UN Charter, protect civilians & ensure nuclear safety.
• Let’s act responsibly & together to pull the… — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) February 28, 2026 He reiterated that lasting peace can only be achieved through peaceful means, including genuine dialogue and negotiations, noting that the joint military operation by Israel and the United States occurred following indirect talks between the US and Iran mediated by Oman, “squandering” the opportunity for diplomacy.