UN chief concerned about escalation over Strait of Hormuz: spokesman

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is deeply concerned about the latest escalation over the Strait of Hormuz, said his spokesman on Wednesday.

"The secretary-general is deeply concerned by reports of further escalations in and around the Strait of Hormuz over the past days, including attacks against commercial vessels and threats of additional action against maritime and energy infrastructure," said spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Navigational rights and freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz must be fully restored and respected in accordance with international law, said the spokesman.

"The UN recalls the secretary-general's appeal to all concerned to exercise utmost restraint and refrain from actions and rhetoric that could further inflame an already volatile situation," said the spokesman. "Any further escalation risks grave consequences for civilians, regional stability, international peace and security, and the global economy."

Guterres urges the parties to make full use of diplomatic channels and resolve issues through dialogue and negotiations. The UN Secretariat is ready to support all credible efforts aimed at de-escalation and a comprehensive and durable settlement, said Dujarric. Enditem