Merve Berker
12 March 2026•Update: 12 March 2026
ANKARA
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday said attacks launched by the US and Israel against Iran have affected several countries and pushed the region toward a critical breaking point.
Guterres delivered the remarks during the Ataturk International Peace Prize ceremony at the Presidential Complex, where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan presented him with the award.
He warned that the escalation in the Middle East is disrupting trade, increasing energy prices and fueling instability, particularly affecting poor and vulnerable populations.
Emphasizing that dialogue and de-escalation remain the only viable path forward, Guterres called on all parties to abandon hostilities, protect civilians under international law and return to negotiations.
Highlighting Türkiye’s role in hosting refugees, the UN chief said the country opened its doors during an unprecedented displacement crisis as millions fled violence and persecution.
Beginning his speech by thanking Erdogan, the Turkish government and the Turkish people, Guterres said the award comes at a time of great suffering, conflicts and deepening geopolitical divisions.
He noted that trust in global cooperation is declining, but stressed that peace is more than a noble vision.
“Peace is a rallying call. It is a call to action. I am honored to accept this award,” the chief said, noting that he accepts it on behalf of UN staff working worldwide for sustainable development and human rights.
He also dedicated the award to UN personnel who lost their lives, particularly in Gaza, while carrying out humanitarian and peacekeeping missions.
Referring to Türkiye's founder Gazi Mustafa Kemal Ataturk’s legacy, Guterres said the principle “Peace at home, peace in the world” reflects the spirit of the UN Charter.
“During an unprecedented displacement situation, Türkiye opened its doors and millions of people fled violence and persecution to Türkiye,” he said.
Guterres also praised Türkiye’s leadership in the Black Sea Grain Initiative and its mediation efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages in Gaza.
Addressing global conflicts, the UN chief warned that international law is increasingly being violated while geopolitical tensions and military spending continue to rise.
“We talk a lot about peace in the world but see very little of it,” he said. “International law is being violated, power politics is gaining ground, inequalities are growing and new technologies, including artificial intelligence, are increasing the risk of violence.”
He stressed that civilians continue to pay the highest price in conflicts, pointing to the Middle East crisis as one of the most tragic examples.
