'Seize this diplomatic opportunity,' UN Secretary says on US-Iran talks

With peace talks set to launch over the weekend, the United Nations spokesman delivered a statement on Friday (April 10) that the Secretary-General was embracing the summit.

The negotiations are scheduled for Saturday in Pakistan. U.S. President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire in the six-week war this past week, just hours before a deadline after which he had threatened to destroy Iran's civilisation.

However, the truce is tenuous with Israel's continuing bombardment of Lebanon and the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz proving key sticking points for both sides.

"I can tell you that the Secretary General welcomes the U.S.-Iran talks," United Nations spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric said. "He calls on the parties to seize this diplomatic opportunity to engage in good faith towards a lasting and comprehensive agreement with a view to de-escalation and the prevention of a return to hostilities."

-Dan Fastenberg/Reuters