GENEVA, March 1,  (V7N) - The United Nations’ rights chief Volker Turk condemned Saturday’s military strikes across the Middle East, calling for restraint and a return to negotiations. He warned that continued attacks would only bring “death, destruction, and human misery.”

Turk deplored the strikes by Israel and the United States against Iran, and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation. He stressed that civilians always pay the ultimate price in armed conflict, urging leaders to de-escalate and return to the negotiating table. “Failing to do so risks an even wider conflict, not just in Iran but across the Middle East,” he said.

The remarks came just days after indirect US–Iran nuclear talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman. Turk reminded all parties of their obligation to protect civilians and insisted that violations of the rules of war must be held accountable.

World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also voiced concern, warning of grave health risks from the expanding conflict. He highlighted the danger of nuclear facilities being impacted, urging leaders to reduce risks and choose dialogue over destruction.

The UN’s appeal underscores fears that escalating strikes could spiral into a broader regional war, with devastating consequences for civilians and global stability.

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