There is a continued risk of a broader regional conflagration the longer the conflict in Gaza lasts, given the escalation and the possibility of miscalculation by multiple actors, the headline said in a message released by his spokesperson.

The high representative reiterated his call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Strip and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages to end the crisis.

At the same time, he warned about the escalation of violence in the occupied West Bank, including the intensification of operations by Israeli security forces, the high number of fatalities, settler violence and attacks by Palestinians against Israelis.

Guterres described the context as extremely alarming, insisting on the risks of daily exchanges of fire across the Blue Line and the possibility of a broader escalation between Israel and Lebanon that could affect regional stability.

He also expressed concern about the collateral effects of continued attacks by groups in Iraq and Syria, as well as those by the Houthis against ships in the Red Sea, which have become more intense in recent days.

The UN chief urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and take urgent measures to reduce tensions in the Middle East.

In that sense, he reiterated his call to all members of the international community to do everything in their power and use their influence to prevent an escalation of the situation.

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