A senior United Nations official has told the Security Council that tensions that have engulfed multiple countries continue to rise in the aftermath of the war in Gaza, as concerns about the risks of further escalation permeate the region.
Russia called the meeting after it condemned US strikes on alleged Iran-backed militant groups in Iraq and Syria in the aftermath of an attack that killed three US military personnel, injuring more than 30 in Jordan in late January.
Israel and Hezbollah continue to exchange fire across the Blue Line on an almost daily basis while ongoing Houthi drone and missile attacks on navigation in the Red Sea have seen the United States, the United Kingdom and their allies launch retaliatory strikes on Houthi positions in Yemen.
The United Nations Secretariat has repeatedly warned about the risks of further escalation and miscalculation that could have serious ramifications for the wider Middle East region.
Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo says, “The Secretary-General continues his extensive outreach to all key stakeholders to urge all parties to take concrete measures to de-escalate tensions and to work towards sustainable political solutions that aim to resolve, rather than merely manage longstanding conflicts. I appeal to the Council to continue to actively engage all concerned parties to prevent further escalation and the worsening of tensions that undermine regional peace and security.
Source: SABC
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