UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate de-escalation of the Israeli-Iranian conflict and a subsequent ceasefire.
"I remain deeply concerned about the ongoing military escalation in the Middle East between Israel and Iran. I reiterate my call for immediate de-escalation leading to a ceasefire," Guterres said in a statement.
He also warned against the conflict spreading to other countries. "I strongly urge everyone to avoid any further internationalization of the conflict. Any further military interventions could have huge consequences not only for those involved but for the region and for international peace and security as a whole."
Guterres condemned the attacks, which have caused tragic and needless loss of civilian life and injury and damage to homes and critical civilian infrastructure.
Diplomacy remains the best and only way to address concerns about Iran's nuclear programme and regional security issues, he said.