AS Pakistan and Turkiye are working behind-the-scenes for de-escalation, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has warned that the Iran war has spun beyond all boundaries, declaring the conflict ‘out of control’, cautioning the world faces the prospects of a far broader confrontation.
During a news conference at the UN Headquarters, he said it is time to stop climbing the escalation ladder and start climbing the diplomatic ladder and return to full respect of international law.
There is no doubt that ground realities substantiate apprehensions of the UN chief but regrettably his organization has become totally irrelevant in promoting peace of the globe, which is its fundamental responsibility as per the UN Charter. The gravity of the situation demanded the UN should play a lead role but in the absence of any worthwhile initiative by the world body, some countries including Pakistan, Turkiye and Egypt are making individual efforts, which may or may not produce the desired results because of complexity and enormity of the challenge. Of course, the UN Secretary-General himself cannot deliver without active support of the member countries, especially the influential ones but it seems they are watching the situation as silent spectators, may be as part of their strategy to settle their own scores with warring parties. The onerous responsibility of mediation has fallen on the shoulders of Pakistan and relevant countries including the United States, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are appreciative of its role and contribution but analysts and strategists are viewing developments with optimism because of hard stances of the two sides and moves on the battle-field. The United States has prepared a 15-point proposal and in response Iran is reported to have come up with its own version claiming it wants a permanent end to conflict and comprehensive compensation for destruction. It is encouraging that despite counter-proposals, the peace process itself has not been rejected by the two sides, which opens a window of opportunity for mediators to find common ground that could lead to cessation of hostilities. However, this has to be done with speed as the five-day pause announced by President Trump is expiring soon and in the meanwhile the US military buildup continues in what is believed to be preparations for ground assault including occupation of strategic Kharg Island. Some analysts believe the buildup is part of the pressure tactics to squeeze concessions from Tehran during talks but no one can predict the situation with precision given the mercurial decision-making by the US President. The way the war is proceeding ahead, there will be no clear victor and instead its continuation will add to the heavy cost both in men and material for the two sides and economic challenges for the rest of the world. Therefore, they ought to adopt realistic positions during talks as extreme demands could derail the prospects for peace and bring more havoc and humiliation for the warring parties. Iranians have withstood the combined onslaught of the US and Israel, have inflicted unexpected harm on invaders and have preparations and resolve to sustain the war for months. In this backdrop, it is unrealistic on the part of the United States to demand acceptance of defeat by Iran and total surrender of its legitimate rights. Similarly, the US is in search of an honourable exit but it is unlikely to agree to terms that could have implications for its stature as the only superpower of the globe. So far, the United States and Israel have not been able to impose their will on Iranian people and plans aimed at ground assault and occupation of strategic locations could prove as difficult an option as dreams to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides should, therefore, avail the opportunity, afforded by Pakistan, for an end to war and peaceful settlement of the conflict.
