In a statement posted on X, Guterres said the strikes occurred despite an existing ceasefire and at a critical moment when the United States and Iran are reportedly close to reaching an agreement that could help bring stability to the region.
"I strongly condemn today s Israeli strikes on Beirut," Guterres said, adding that the attacks took place while negotiations were underway that could pave the way for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
The UN chief warned that continued hostilities were having devastating consequences not only for the region but also for the global economy. He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran would succeed.
Earlier this week, Guterres reiterated the importance of respecting the territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence of Lebanon. He also called for a comprehensive ceasefire and stressed that weapons should remain under the exclusive authority of the Lebanese state.
Fresh Escalation in Lebanon
The condemnation came after Israel launched new strikes on Beirut s southern suburbs, marking the second such attack within a week.
According to Lebanese state media, an airstrike targeted an apartment building in the Ghobeiry district of Dahiyeh, a southern Beirut area considered a stronghold of Hezbollah.
Israel said the operation was conducted in response to Hezbollah fire directed at northern Israeli territory. Simultaneously, Israeli forces carried out broader military operations across southern Lebanon.
Ceasefire Under Strain
The renewed violence comes despite ongoing direct talks between Israel and Lebanon, which began in April in Washington. The discussions aim to reduce hostilities and prevent a wider regional conflict, with a fifth round of negotiations scheduled later this month.
However, both Israel and Hezbollah have repeatedly accused each other of violating the ceasefire announced following the first round of talks.
The latest escalation is particularly sensitive as Iran has reportedly insisted that any broader agreement with the United States must include a sustainable ceasefire in Lebanon. Diplomatic sources say discussions involving Washington and Tehran have intensified in recent weeks, raising hopes for a broader regional de-escalation.
With negotiations at a critical stage, international mediators fear that continued military action could undermine efforts to secure a wider peace arrangement across the Middle East.
