UN Appoints Envoy to Lead Efforts to End Iran War

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Jean Arnault as his personal envoy to lead international efforts aimed at ending the ongoing war involving Iran, amid growing concerns over humanitarian and global economic fallout.

Guterres warned that the conflict, now entering its fourth week, is spiraling out of control, placing severe strain on humanitarian operations and disproportionately affecting the world’s most vulnerable populations.

He urged the United States and Israel to end military operations immediately, while calling on Iran to halt attacks targeting neighboring countries.

The UN chief also raised alarm over the broader global implications of the conflict, warning that disruptions linked to the war could trigger a food crisis. He noted that Gulf countries are key suppliers of raw materials used in nitrogen-based fertilizers, and any interruption could severely impact global agricultural production.

Guterres cautioned that reduced access to fertilizers ahead of planting seasons could increase the risk of a global famine, especially in already vulnerable regions.

He further highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that any closure or disruption could choke global flows of oil, gas, and fertilizers, intensifying volatility in international markets and directly threatening food security worldwide.

In addition, Guterres called for an immediate halt to escalating hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, warning against the expansion of conflict into Lebanon and the risk of a broader regional crisis.