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Middle East conflict

UN chief urges to prevent escalation of Middle East conflict

"The Secretary-General remains gravely concerned about the further spillover of this conflict, which could have devastating consequences for the entire region," the statement said

UNITED NATIONS, December 29. /TASS/. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres is concerned about the escalating tensions in the Middle East caused by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has called to do everything possible to de-escalate the regional situation, according to Guterres’ statement distributed by his office.

"The Secretary-General remains gravely concerned about the further spillover of this conflict, which could have devastating consequences for the entire region," the statement said. "The Secretary General urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint and take urgent steps to de-escalate tensions in the region."

The UN chief urged all members of the international community "to do everything in their power to use their influence on the relevant parties to prevent an escalation of the situation in the region", and also reiterated his call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Tensions flared up in the Middle East after Hamas militants from the Gaza Strip attacked Israeli territory on October 7, when many Israelis living in the settlements near the border were killed and over 200 people, including children, women and the elderly, were taken hostage. Hamas views its attack as a response to Israeli authorities’ steps against the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. Israel declared a total blockade of the Gaza Strip and launched bombardments of the enclave and some areas in Lebanon and Syria. Clashes are also reported in the West Bank.

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