New York, July 16 (SANA)U.N. Secretary-GeneralAntónio Guterreson Wednesday called for immediate steps to de-escalate tensions in theMiddle East,urging all parties to return to dialogue and diplomacy amid continued military escalation in the region.

In a statement delivered by his spokesperson at theUnited Nations’daily press briefing, Guterres warned that a return to large-scale hostilities would exact an unbearable toll on civilians and have catastrophic consequences for international peace and security, as well as the global economy.

He also renewed his call for the full restoration of freedom of international navigation through theStrait of Hormuzand its surrounding waters, stressing that all parties must respect those rights in accordance with international law.

Guterres reiterated his appeal forIran and the United Statesto resume talks without delay and resolve outstanding issues through diplomatic channels, echoing a call he first made on July 12.

The latest escalation comes amid renewed confrontation between the United States and Iran. U.S. forces have carried out multiple waves of strikes on Iranian military targets and reimposed a blockade onIranian ports, while Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. military installations acrossGulf states.