He said the issue of upholding international law would be a focus of his visit this week to the UN’s highest court in The Hague, the International Court of Justice, amid hopes of resuming talks between Iran and the United States.
The crisis has caused death and devastation across the region, blocked shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, crucial to global trade in fuel, fertilizer and gas, and left thousands of workers stranded on vessels at sea.
Reaffirm, do not retreat
“Justice must be blind. But today, many choose to turn a blind eye to justice itself,” the UN chief said.
“Around the world – and clearly in the Middle East – respect for international law is being trampled.”
He insisted that “this is not the time to withdraw from international law. It is the time to reaffirm it.”
Message to the world
The ICJ, also known as the World Court, celebrates its 80th anniversary this week.
The UN’s main judicial body is a pillar of the international legal order and “has fulfilled that role with distinction” during this period.
However, the visit “is not simply about commemorating an anniversary. It is about sending an unequivocal message,” he said.
“A message that the United Nations firmly supports the institutions and principles designed to protect peace, justice, sovereignty and human dignity,” he continued.
“A message that international law applies to all States, without exception, and that respect for its norms is not optional. In a world moving towards greater fragmentation and sharper power competition, international law is indispensable..”
Moderation resource
The Secretary General warned that “without it, instability spreads, mistrust deepens and conflicts spiral out of control,” a situation that applies everywhere, but with urgency in the Middle East conflict.
He repeated his position that there are There is no military solution to the crisis.adding that peace agreements require persistent commitment and political will.
He stressed that serious negotiations must resume, while all parties must respect international navigation rights and freedoms, including in the Strait of Hormuz.
“It’s time for moderation and responsibility.“, said.
“It is time for diplomacy to prefer escalation. It is time to renew commitment to international law.”