ASG Jenča warns Security Council of dangerous escalation after U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites

On 22 June, Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas Miroslav Jenča briefed the Security Council on the serious escalation following U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. He reported on the attacks on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, and urged Iran to grant IAEA inspectors access. The ASG described the strikes as a direct threat to international peace and security, warning that the conflict between Iran, Israel, and now the United States risks engulfing the region. He expressed deep concern over mounting civilian casualties—reportedly more than 400 killed in Iran and 25 in Israel—as well as significant damage to homes, health facilities, and civilian infrastructure. Reiterating calls by the Secretary-General, he urged immediate de-escalation, diplomacy, and full adherence to the UN Charter and international law.

SRSG Otunbayeva briefs Security Council on UN engagement with Afghanistan’s de facto authorities

On 23 June, Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) Roza Otunbayeva briefed the Security Council on the UN’s Comprehensive Approach to engaging with Afghanistan’s de facto authorities. She emphasized that the approach does not seek to normalize the status quo, but rather to create space for structured, multilateral dialogue on key issues, including human rights, women’s rights, and regional stability. She expressed deep concern over the continued exclusion of women and girls from public life, shrinking civic space, and the sharp underfunding of humanitarian efforts, including mine action. The SRSG also warned that regional instability is already impacting Afghanistan, compounding pressure on communities and returnees. She called for sustained engagement, protection of rights, and international support to prevent further deterioration.

SRSG Tetteh briefs Security Council on fragile truce and political consultations in Libya

On 24 June, SRSG and Head of the United Nations Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) Hanna Tetteh briefed the Security Council on recent developments in Libya, warning that the security situation remains unpredictable despite the fragile truce in Tripoli. She noted UNSMIL’s support to the Presidential Council in establishing new mechanisms for de-escalation, but voiced alarm over civilian harm, mass graves, and reports of extrajudicial killings following the May clashes. SRSG Tetteh also highlighted outcomes of the revived Berlin Process meeting and ongoing nationwide consultations on political options proposed by the UNSMIL-facilitated Advisory Committee. Libyans across the country, she said, are demanding elections, accountable governance, and an end to transitional arrangements. She announced that UNSMIL intends to present a time-bound roadmap based on these consultations, and urged full support from the Council, including measures against spoilers.

USG DiCarlo underscores need to return to diplomacy on Iran nuclear issue, welcomes ceasefire as opportunity to avoid catastrophic escalation

On 24 June, the Security Council held an open briefing on the Secretary-General’s latest report on resolution 2231 (2015), which endorses the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo briefed Council members, highlighting recent developments related to Iran’s nuclear programme and broader regional tensions. She reiterated the Secretary-General’s call for full implementation of the JCPOA and for all Member States to act in accordance with their obligations under the UN Charter and international law. Ms. DiCarlo also stressed that diplomacy remains essential to addressing the current crisis and restoring stability.

ASG Pobee briefs Security Council on escalating crisis in Sudan

ASG for Africa Martha Pobee briefed the Security Council on 27 June on the intensifying conflict in Sudan. She highlighted worsening humanitarian and security conditions, including indiscriminate aerial attacks, the use of advanced weaponry, and the risk of regional spill-over. Ms. Pobee condemned widespread human rights violations and called for a humanitarian pause, de-escalation, and renewed political efforts. She urged Member States to support the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, and to strengthen multilateral coordination to advance civilian protection and a peaceful transition.

Special Coordinator Hennis-Plasschaert highlights both hurdles and opportunities as part of "Women in Diplomacy" initiative

This week, Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert participated in a roundtable discussion marking Women in Diplomacy Day, observed on 24 June. Reflecting on her own experiences, she acknowledged the persistent barriers to women’s participation and leadership in diplomacy—an issue echoed by all participants. The Special Coordinator emphasized that “consistent presence, preparation and voice are critical,” underscoring the importance of perseverance and sustained support in creating more inclusive diplomatic spaces and breaking down systemic obstacles to women's full and equal participation.

Regional actors and UN partners deepen collaboration on climate, peace and security

Held on 23 June in Addis Ababa and online, the 2025 CSM Partnership Dialogue brought together Member States, regional organizations, UN entities, and civil society to strengthen responses to climate-related security risks. Co-organized by the UN’s Climate Security Mechanism (CSM) and the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU), the event featured the launch of the Survey of Practice on CPS and new commitments from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), Liptako-Gourma Authority (LGA), and others. Portugal, the Republic of Korea, and Switzerland announced new pledges of support. The Dialogue highlighted the importance of regional leadership, context-specific action, and UN coordination ahead of COP30.

SRSG Al Hassan engages Iraqi leaders on regional stability, justice, and elections

This week, SRSG and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Mohamed Al Hassan held a series of high-level meetings with Iraqi leaders. In Baghdad on 25 June, he met with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Minister of Justice Khalid Shwani to discuss regional developments, justice reform, and the protection of human rights. The SRSG reaffirmed UN support for Iraq’s efforts to promote stability, accountability, and the rule of law. Earlier, in Sulaymaniyah and Samarra, he met with Mr. Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan; Mr. Shaswar Abdulwahid, President of the New Generation Movement; and Mr. Muthana AbdulSamad Al Samarrai, head of the Azim Alliance. Discussions focused on preserving Iraq’s security, advancing peaceful solutions, and encouraging broad participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for November. 

Ethnic reintegration process advances in Caquetá with a territorial and intercultural approach

In Agua Bonita, Caquetá, together with institutions, peace signatories, and communities, UNVMC participated on 20 June in the national assembly of the National Association of Ethnic Signatories ‘Building Peace’. During the meeting, participants discussed progress and challenges related to strengthening the ethnic reintegration process, recognizing its collective, territorial, and intercultural character. The event served to promote and raise awareness of the public policy of reintegration, as well as to identify concrete actions to advance the protection and fulfillment of the rights of former combatants.

Iceland contributes to DPPA’s Multi-Year Appeal

This week, we thank the Iceland for its generous contribution of $154,500 to support DPPA’s work on mediation.

Learn more about our Multi-Year Appeal

Next Week

The Security Council will discuss the situation in the Middle East on Monday, 30 June. Pakistan will assume the presidency of the Security Council.