UN chief urges restoration of navigation rights in Hormuz and Bab Al-Mandab

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for de-escalation to be the top priority at this critical moment in the Middle East.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the opening of the high-level week of the 81st session of the General Assembly, Guterres urged all parties to halt any actions that harm civilians and to ensure that humanitarian operations can be carried out safely and without obstruction.

He also emphasized the need to fully restore and respect the rights and freedoms of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab Al-Mandab Strait, and their surrounding areas, in accordance with international law.

The Secretary-General said the world is entering a period of "profound uncertainty," marked by shifting power balances, rapid changes, and growing threats that require stronger international cooperation.