UN chief urges US, Iran to 'return urgently to diplomacy' after renewed attacks

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday expressed "grave concern" after renewed strikes between the US and Iran, and condemned all attacks against civilians. "The secretary-general is deeply alarmed by reports of civilian casualties, including a strike that reportedly hit a wedding ceremony in Iran," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said during a news conference. "The secretary-general condemns all attacks against civilians," Dujarric said. "He recalls that all parties must respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution." He added that the UN chief urged Washington and Tehran to "return urgently to diplomacy," adding that a "comprehensive and durable settlement can be achieved only through dialog and negotiations".