New YORKcTypeface:> UN Secretary General António Guterres warned on Wednesday that the Middle East is on the brink of disaster following the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The latest incidents are a "dangerous escalation” and undermine the goal of ending the Gaza war, Guterres announced in New York. "The secretary general urges all to vigorously work towards regional de-escalation in the interest of long-term peace and stability for all.” All actions that "could push the entire Middle East over the edge, with a devastating impact on civilians” must be avoided, he added.

Tensions in the Middle East had risen dramatically following the targeted killing of the political leader of Hamas. (DPA)