UN chief calls for end to cycle of retaliation in Middle East

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says it is "high time to stop the dangerous cycle of retaliation in the Middle East".

He issued the statement through his spokesperson on Friday.

Guterres said he "condemns any act of retaliation and appeals to the international community to work together to prevent any further development that could lead to devastating consequences for the entire region and beyond."