The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has named veteran French diplomat Jean Arnault as his personal envoy to lead UN efforts on the Middle East conflict and its consequences.
He warned that the conflict was “out of control”, reiterating his call on the United States and Israel to stop the war, and for Iran to stop attacking its neighbours.
“It is time to stop climbing the escalation ladder – and start climbing the diplomatic ladder, and return to full respect of international law,” Guterres said.
Arnault “will be doing everything possible” to support all efforts for mediation and peace, and will be in contact with all parties.
He will examine how the conflict is impacting the region and civilians, both there and around the world, as well as consequences for the global economy.
The envoy has nearly 40 years of experience in international diplomacy, especially in the field of peaceful settlements and mediation, and has led UN missions in Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America. Most recently he served as the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Afghanistan and regional issues.
