New York: The UN Security Council reiterated the importance of diplomacy as the best path forward in addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program. Members emphasized that negotiations — not military action — remain the most viable solution to maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, delivered a strong message on behalf of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, condemning the military escalation and urging both sides to exercise “maximum restraint” to prevent a deeper and broader regional conflict.

She also reiterated the Secretary-General’s call for both sides to exercise maximum restraint at this critical moment and avoid sliding into a deeper and broader regional conflict at all costs, expressing her deep concern over the Israeli strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities.

DiCarlo noted that the recent dangerous escalation comes on the heels of several important diplomatic developments, as talks between Iran and the United States were scheduled to resume in Oman later this week, stressing her encouragement for the continuation of such diplomatic efforts.

Iran requested the emergency session following the Israeli attack, which reportedly struck military and scientific leaders as well as civilian areas.