Crisis of Trust over Iran’s Nuclear Program Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict – UN Secretary-General

Crisis of Trust over Iran’s Nuclear Program Amid Ongoing Middle East Conflict – UN Secretary-General
New York, 20 June 2025

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the world is heading toward a deep crisis amid the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel. He stated that there is a “serious crisis of trust” at the international level regarding negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.

In his opening remarks at a high-level session of the UN Security Council on Thursday, Guterres said:
“This conflict risks igniting a fire that no one will be able to control.”

He emphasized that at the heart of the current conflict lies Iran’s nuclear program.
“Iran has repeatedly stated that it is not developing nuclear weapons. However, we must acknowledge that there is a crisis of confidence within the international community on this issue,” the UN chief said.

He called on all parties to immediately cease hostilities and return to dialogue, stating:
“I strongly urge: stop this fighting. Find a path to resolution through negotiation.”

The UN Secretary-General’s remarks come at a time of rapidly escalating military tensions between Israel and Iran. Experts warn that the conflict could soon spread into a wider war across the Middle East.