United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday strongly condemned Israeli airstrikes on Beirut, warning that the attacks came at a critical moment as the United States and Iran move closer to a potential peace agreement.
The Beirut strikes occurred despite an existing ceasefire and amid ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at ending hostilities and restoring regional stability.
UN urges restraint
“I strongly condemn today’s Israeli strikes on Beirut,” Guterres said in a statement posted on X.
He noted that the attacks took place while Washington and Tehran were expected to finalize an agreement that could pave the way for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Guterres also highlighted the broader consequences of the conflict, saying it has had a devastating impact on the global economy.
He expressed hope that diplomatic efforts would succeed and called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint during the sensitive negotiations.
Trump says agreement remains on track
US President Donald Trump said a peace agreement with Iran could be signed within a few hours despite the latest escalation.
He said the Israeli attack “should not have happened” and urged all sides to stand down.
However, Iranian officials disputed that timeline. Iranian media reported that Tehran had not yet made a final decision regarding the proposed agreement.
Deadly attacks in Lebanon
According to Lebanese media, at least seven people were killed and several others injured when Israeli warplanes struck Beirut’s southern suburbs and locations in southern Lebanon on Sunday.
The attacks added to growing concerns that renewed violence could undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Regional tensions continue
The Israeli military has continued operations in Lebanon since early March following Hezbollah’s response to the war involving Iran.
According to Lebanese authorities, the conflict has killed more than 3,800 people and displaced over one million others.
Diplomatic efforts to secure a broader regional settlement continue as international leaders push for de-escalation and a lasting ceasefire.
