UN nuclear weapons inspector 'ready to go to Iran' - as Middle East 'cannot endure another cycle of destruction'
22 June 2025, 20:53 | Updated: 23 June 2025, 10:26
The Secretary General of the United Nations has warned the Middle East "cannot endure another cycle of destruction" following US strikes on Iran.
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Antonio Guterres opened an emergency meeting of the Security Council in New York following the United States' decision to bomb three nuclear sites.
The head of the United Nation's atomic agency, also informed the meeting he is ready to go to Iran.
Director General Rafael Grossi stated he is "ready to travel immediately and to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful uses of nuclear technology in accordance with the agencies mandate."
Mr Guterres described the bombing of the facilities as a "perilous turn in a region that is already reeling from the outset of the crisis."
He added: "I have repeatedly condemned any military escalation in the Middle East.
"The people of the region cannot endure another cycle of destruction."
He called for diplomacy to "prevail".
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Mr Guterres also called for a "credible, comprehensive and verifiable solution".
"As the United nations technical authority in this field, the Non Proliferation Treaty is a cornerstone of international peace and security. Iran must fully respect it.
"All Member States must act in accordance with their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law, including international humanitarian law.
"The United nations stands ready to support any and all efforts toward a peaceful resolution. But peace cannot be imposed. It must be chosen.
"Madam President, we face a stark choice.
"One path leads to wider war, deeper human suffering and serious damage to the international order. The other leads to de-escalation, diplomacy and dialogue.
"We know which path is right, and I urge this Council and all Member States to act with reason, restraint and urgency.
"We cannot and must not give up on peace."
Director General Grossi told the meetinghe is ready to go in to Iran.
"As I stated three days ago and before, I am ready to travel immediately and to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful uses of nuclear technology in accordance with the agencies mandate.
"With your support, the IAEA can deploy nuclear safety and security experts to Iran immediately, in addition to our safeguards inspectors wherever they are needed."
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