United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced deep concern and condemnation over rising global tensions sparked by violent unrest in Iran. He accused “a group of powerful actors” of deliberately undermining regional stability and weakening the framework of international cooperation.
Speaking on Saturday, January 17, at a special session in London marking the 80th anniversary of the UN General Assembly, Guterres highlighted the urgent need for multilateral collaboration. Notably, his tenure as Secretary-General is set to conclude on December 31 this year.
The session, held at London’s Methodist Central Hall, brought together representatives from 51 countries. The first session of the UN General Assembly was historically held in London on January 10, 1946, as the UN headquarters in New York had not yet been built.
In his address, Guterres praised the United Kingdom for its role in establishing the UN and promoting its ideals. However, he noted that 2025 had been an especially challenging year for safeguarding international cooperation and the core values of the organization.
The Secretary-General warned that influential powers worldwide are actively working to weaken avenues for cooperation. Yet, he emphasized, the UN continues its mission to maintain peace, resolve conflicts, and address humanitarian crises.
Highlighting progress, Guterres cited a new international agreement on preserving marine biodiversity in international waters and seabeds. He described it as a groundbreaking model of modern diplomacy guided by science, ensuring active participation from governments, civil society, and indigenous and local communities.
Expressing regret that such achievements often go underreported, he said successes in ceasefires, famine prevention, or critical treaties are frequently overlooked. Guterres called for full respect for international law, tolerance for differing opinions, and strengthened multilateral cooperation to ensure the welfare and well-being of people worldwide.
He also stressed the need to reform the global financial system and restructure the UN Security Council as part of efforts to establish lasting worldwide peace.
Source: Dawn.