UN chief urges end to US-Iran conflict amid maritime disruptions

UN chief’s appeal in Islamabad

On 6 October 2026, UN Secretary-General António Guterres addressed journalists in Islamabad during a two-day visit to Pakistan. He urged an end to the United States-Iran conflict and the restoration of navigational rights in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.

Pakistan’s diplomatic role

Guterres praised Pakistan for its leadership in facilitating dialogue between the US and Iran. He cited the 17 June Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, the subsequent ceasefire, and the framework for further negotiations as outcomes of Pakistan’s efforts.

Impact on maritime trade

The conflict began in late February after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Tehran responded with counter-attacks on Gulf countries and Jordan and blocked transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The maritime corridor, vital for global trade in crude oil, fertilisers and liquefied natural gas, has seen hundreds of ships and crews stranded at sea for months.

Broader regional tensions

The fighting has spread to Yemen’s Red Sea coast, where Iran-backed Houthi forces clash with Saudi-supported government troops over the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Guterres noted that peace in the region depends on the right of self-determination for the Palestinian people, a position long championed by Pakistan.

UN-Pakistan cooperation

Guterres highlighted Pakistan’s contributions to UN peacekeeping, its role in the UN Security Council over the past two years, and its leadership in climate action, including the Loss and Damage Fund and clean-energy transition. He called on developed countries to lead a drastic reduction in global emissions this decade.