Ankara: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is "deeply concerned" about escalating military actions and threats to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, his spokesperson said Wednesday. Stephane Dujarric told reporters that Guterres expressed grave worry regarding recent attacks against commercial vessels and "threats of additional action" against maritime and energy infrastructure in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime chokepoint.

According to Anadolu Agency, Dujarric emphasized Guterres' position that navigational rights and freedom of passage in the region "must be fully restored and respected in accordance with international law." He noted the UN chief's appeal to all parties involved to "exercise utmost restraint" and avoid hostile actions or rhetoric. The UN warned of "grave consequences" for civilians, global economic stability, and international peace if the volatile situation inflames further.

Dujarric added that "the secretary general urges the parties to make full use of diplomatic channels and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiations," noting that the UN chief remains ready to support all credible efforts aimed at de-escalation. When questioned about the status of Guterres' proposal to secure the passage of cargo ships carrying grain through the strait, Dujarric said that Jorge Moreira da Silva, head of UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS), is continuing consultations. "The question is whether the parties ... are willing to let it go forward," he said.

Tensions in the region have escalated sharply following a new cycle of tit-for-tat attacks on tankers. The US recently announced it struck and sank numerous Iranian oil tankers near Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export terminal in the Gulf, and Jask, a strategic port city. Washington labeled the vessels as part of a "shadow fleet" used for sanctions evasion. In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed attacks on 10 vessels in and near the strait, including eight oil tankers it alleged were attempting to enter a "restricted and perilous" zone. Additionally, Houthi rebels in Yemen have targeted Saudi energy facilities, injuring dozens and driving up global oil prices.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that any further US strikes would result in retaliation against energy infrastructure in the Gulf.