America News Agency

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk stated that the Middle East crisis, which began after the attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran and Iran’s counterattacks, is spreading like a wildfire.

Noting that the crisis has caused serious damage in at least a dozen countries, including Iran, Israel and most of the Gulf region, Türk said: “This situation carries the risk of causing major economic and environmental consequences worldwide.”

Emphasizing that tensions must be reduced, Türk said: “The world urgently needs to see steps that will bring this fire under control and extinguish it. We are seeing more provocative rhetoric, more bombardment, destruction, death and escalation.”

He also noted that uncertainty has been created regarding international law: “Confusion has been created regarding international law and some have openly disregarded the fundamental values of humanity. I call on the states involved to immediately reduce tensions and give peace a chance.”

Drawing attention to developments in Lebanon, Türk said: “Lebanon is becoming an important point of tension. I am deeply concerned about the developments following Hezbollah’s attacks and Israel’s intense response.”

Türk also called for an end to the clashes, stating: “Hostilities must end immediately. I call on heads of state and government around the world to clearly demonstrate their commitment to defending international human rights law, international humanitarian law and the United Nations Charter.”