UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated on Tuesday that "diplomacy remains capable of halting conflicts, violence, and instability," emphasizing that "cooperation based on shared interests and the common good is the sustainable path to peace."

The remarks came during a briefing Guterres delivered at the UN Security Council's high-level open debate on "Strengthening International Peace and Security Through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes."

Global Disregard for International Law
Guterres warned of a "total disregard—if not outright violations—of international law," including international human rights law, refugee law, humanitarian law, and even the UN Charter itself, "with no accountability." He commended Pakistan for introducing a draft resolution urging all member states to fully utilize the UN's peacebuilding tools in their collective pursuit of global peace.

Alarming Geopolitical Divisions
The Secretary-General expressed grave concern over widening geopolitical rifts, noting the "devastating human cost" measured in lives lost, shattered communities, and a compromised future. "We need look no further than the horror in Gaza," he said, describing "unparalleled death and destruction" and "the near-collapse of a principled humanitarian system deprived of operational conditions."

He condemned recent attacks on UN facilities in Gaza—including UNRWA installations—despite all parties being informed of their coordinates.

Three-Pronged Path to Renewed Multilateralism
Guterres outlined three critical areas to restore trust in multilateral conflict resolution:

1. Unity Among Security Council Members: Permanent members must overcome divisions.

2. Enhanced Regional Cooperation: The Council should deepen partnerships with regional and subregional actors.

3. Adherence to International Law: Member states must fulfill obligations under the UN Charter, human rights law, and humanitarian law.

Adoption of Resolution 2788
Prior to the debate, the Security Council unanimously adopted Pakistan-sponsored Resolution 2788, urging member states to leverage peaceful dispute mechanisms—including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and judicial settlement—through regional arrangements or other chosen peaceful means.

Closing Appeal
Marking the upcoming 80th anniversary of the UN, Guterres called for renewed commitment to "peace, multilateralism, and diplomacy."