Desk: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly reacted to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, stating that no military objective can justify the deliberate infliction of suffering on civilians.
The statement comes after Trump reportedly warned of targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure and key facilities in the event of a military escalation. The United Nations has expressed serious concern over such rhetoric.
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric emphasized that under international humanitarian law, attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are strictly prohibited. He added that even if a site is considered a military objective, operations must avoid causing excessive harm to civilians.
Guterres urged all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to international law. He reiterated that humanitarian principles must be upheld even during conflict, and targeting innocent civilians constitutes a grave violation.
Trump’s remarks have drawn criticism from the international community, with experts and human rights organizations warning that such statements could further escalate tensions in the Middle East.
Amid rising geopolitical tensions, the UN’s response serves as a reminder that even in times of war, the boundaries of humanity and law must not be crossed.