New York, 24 July (H.S.): United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Middle East, warning that the region is approaching a point where events could spiral beyond control. He called on all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions and pursue a diplomatic resolution to prevent a wider conflict.

Addressing a meeting of the United Nations Security Council, Guterres said the Middle East crisis is moving toward an unthinkable situation. He warned that the region is being drawn into an increasingly broader confrontation, where one crisis is triggering another and every new military action is further escalating tensions. He added that political solutions are steadily being pushed aside amid the growing conflict.

His remarks came as U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that his administration is considering a major military operation against Iran. Trump said a decision could be taken soon, although the U.S. administration has not yet made any formal announcement regarding military action.

Amid fears of further escalation, the United Kingdom has announced the temporary withdrawal of some of its diplomatic personnel from Iran as a precautionary measure. Germany has also decided to withdraw two of its naval vessels from the Red Sea.

Meanwhile, bomb shelters have been opened in several Israeli cities as a precaution, while the U.S. Department of State has advised American citizens in the region to remain vigilant. The department warned that any further deterioration in the security situation could also disrupt air travel.

The United Nations has once again appealed to all concerned parties to exercise maximum restraint and resolve their differences through dialogue and diplomacy in order to avert the risk of a broader regional conflict.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar