[Guterres calls on the United States and Iran to immediately cease fire and return to the diplomatic track] September 3rd, United Nations Secretary-General Guterres expressed through a spokesperson on the 2nd local time that he was seriously concerned about the renewed exchange of fire between the United States and Iran, and called on both sides to immediately stop military operations and return to the diplomatic track as soon as possible. Guterres was deeply alarmed by reports of civilian casualties, including reports that a wedding in Iran was attacked. He condemned all attacks against civilians and stressed that all parties must abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. Guterres pointed out that the escalation of regional tensions has affected many countries in the region, and airspace and important shipping channels continue to be severely affected. Further escalation will have disastrous consequences for civilians, the entire region and beyond. Guterres said that the escalation of the situation in the Middle East has had a serious impact on civilians and further exacerbated humanitarian needs and relief pressure in the region and beyond. With local humanitarian operations already overloaded and underfunded, there is a risk that the situation will deteriorate further. The United Nations and its humanitarian partners continue to provide relief to the best of their ability. Guterres once again called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and avoid actions and rhetoric that may further escalate tensions, and urged the United States and Iran to return to the diplomatic track as soon as possible. He stressed that only through dialogue can a comprehensive and lasting solution be reached. (CCTV News)