New York, March 12 -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday expressed serious concern over the escalating crisis in West Asia, warning that the situation poses a major threat to global peace and security.

In a post on X, Guterres said the unfolding conflict has caused immense suffering for civilians and urged all sides to move towards de-escalation and dialogue.

"The unfolding crisis in the Middle East constitutes a grave threat to international peace and security and has caused immense suffering for civilians," he said.

https://x.com/antonioguterres/status/2032140256322216266

Calling for an immediate end to hostilities, the UN chief emphasised that diplomacy remains the only viable path forward.

"De-escalatio...