UN chief calls for maximized efforts for de-escalation, dialogue in Middle East

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday called on world leaders to maximize their efforts for de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue in the Middle East during the 81st UN General Assembly. 

Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General said  "I appeal to the leaders in this chamber to maximize this high-level week for de-escalation and dialogue. Together, let's send a clear message from this hall: The fighting must stop. Humanitarian aid must flow. And navigational rights and freedoms must be fully restored in accordance with international law." 

Guterres criticized the massive scale of death and destruction in Gaza, warning that actions in the West Bank threaten peace. He also emphasized that the international community cannot let the two-state solution disappear.