António Guterres has warned that the Middle East is being pushed to a “breaking point,” citing escalating military confrontations, attacks on shipping routes, rising oil prices and worsening humanitarian conditions across the region.

The UN chief made the remarks while receiving the Atatürk International Award for Peace during a ceremony in Türkiye. He used the occasion to urge all parties involved in the conflict to immediately halt hostilities and return to diplomacy.

Guterres stressed that combatants must respect international law, protect civilians and resume negotiations to prevent further escalation.

“Around the world, we hear much talk of peace, but we see far too little of it,” he said.

According to him, global tensions are increasing as international law continues to be violated and power politics gain ground, while inequalities continue to widen.

He also warned that emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, could intensify conflicts if misused rather than help prevent violence.

“Military spending is skyrocketing, while lifesaving aid is in freefall,” the UN chief noted.

Guterres said civilians are paying the highest price as death tolls rise and communities are devastated by the ongoing violence.

He described the large-scale military strikes involving the United States and Israel, as well as retaliatory attacks by Iran, as a serious threat to international peace and security.

“The region is being pushed to the breaking point,” he stressed.

The UN Secretary-General warned that the effects of the crisis are spreading beyond the Middle East, disrupting global trade and contributing to higher energy and food prices, as well as growing insecurity.

“As always, the most vulnerable are being hurt first and worst,” he said.

He emphasized that de-escalation and dialogue remain the only viable path forward.

“The region and the world desperately need an off-ramp,” Guterres added.

The UN chief’s trip to Türkiye was part of his annual solidarity visit to a Muslim country during the holy month of Ramadan.

1. “These visits are a powerful reminder to me and to the world of the true spirit of Islam
   

   1. Secretary-General António Guterres briefs reporters on the war in Ukraine.

   “Ukraine is on fire. The country is being decimated before the eyes of the world. The impact on civilians is reaching terrifying proportions… […] It’s time to stop the horror unleashed on the people of Ukraine and get on the path of diplomacy and peace.“ said the Secretary-General.

   compassion, community and empathy,” he said.

Guterres said he chose to visit Türkiye this year to highlight what he described as the generosity and humanitarian spirit of the Turkish people.

He accepted the peace award on behalf of United Nations staff worldwide, recognising their efforts to deliver humanitarian aid and promote peace in conflict-affected areas while also remembering aid workers who lost their lives in service.

“Together, let us give peace a chance,” he said.