HAMILTON, Canada 

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres denounced the rising tensions in Morocco amid youth protests.

"The Secretary-General deplores the violence during recent demonstrations in Morocco, reportedly resulting in three people killed and several hundred injured," said his spokesperson, Farhan Haq, during a news conference Thursday.

Calling for the protests to "take place in a peaceful manner, respecting life, property, and the rule of law," Guterres also called for "a prompt and impartial investigation with a view to ensuring accountability."

"He welcomes the Moroccan government's stated intention to enter into dialogue and to listen to the voices of Moroccan youth," said Haq.

At least three people were killed and 354 others injured, mostly security personnel, in six days of violent protests in the North African country, according to the Interior Ministry.

The protests began with demands for better education and health care. They have been organized by an anonymous group calling itself “GenZ 212” through online platforms.

The ministry said at least 326 security personnel were injured in the unrest, while extensive damage was reported to 271 public security vehicles and 175 private cars.

The protests have spread across several cities, including Rabat and Casablanca in the west, Tangier and Tetouan in the north, and Agadir in southwestern Morocco, where they escalated into clashes with security forces.