New York, July 9 (SANA)U.N. Secretary-General AntónioGuterreson Wednesday called for an immediate de-escalation in theGulf,urging the United States and Iran to resume negotiations following renewed military confrontations in the region.

In a statement issued by U.N. spokespersonStéphane Dujarric, Guterres expressed concern that the latest military exchanges could jeopardize recent diplomatic progress between Washington and Tehran.

TheU.N. chiefwarned that a return to full-scale hostilities would have “catastrophic consequences” for the people of the region, as well as for international peace and security and the global economy.

He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from further escalatory actions and take immediate steps to reduce tensions. Guterres also called for full respect for international law, including the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and for safeguarding freedom of navigation.

The secretary-general urgedWashington and Tehranto resume negotiations without delay and resolve their outstanding differences through diplomacy, reaffirming the United Nations’ readiness to support efforts aimed at preventing a wider conflict, restoring stability and achieving a comprehensive and lasting resolution.

Late on Tuesday, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said U.S. forces had carried out a series of strikes against Iran after Tehran allegedly targeted three commercial vessels transiting theStrait of Hormuz. Iran has not immediately commented on the U.S. statement.