Damascus, March 17 (SANA) – International calls are mounting to contain the escalating military tensions in the Gulf, as confrontations continue between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other, amid growing warnings of a wider regional conflict. The United Nations urged immediate de-escalation, warning that ongoing missile and drone exchanges are worsening civilian suffering and pushing the situation toward a rapid deterioration affecting several countries across the region.
The United States said it is closely monitoring developments, with President Donald Trump indicating that Washington is not currently pursuing negotiations with Iran while emphasizing the need to avoid a full-scale war. U.S. officials added that recent military actions are aimed at protecting American forces and securing maritime routes, particularly after attacks near the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.
Iran, meanwhile, stated it has not requested a ceasefire and is prepared for a prolonged confrontation if necessary. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran sees no justification for negotiations under continued attacks, stressing that Iran will respond to any threats to its national security.
European countries called for an immediate return to diplomacy, warning of the impact of escalation on global energy security, while the European Union stressed the need to safeguard navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and avoid targeting critical infrastructure. Russia and China also emphasized that a political solution remains the only viable path, warning that further escalation could have serious consequences for international security and global energy markets.
With no clear signs of de-escalation, the situation is widely seen as entering a highly dangerous phase, leaving restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts as the only path to preventing broader instability in the region and beyond.
Kh.A
