In a post on his X account on Thursday, Baqaei responded to Antonio Guterres' recent remarks expressing concern over the growing disregard for international law, expanding impunity and escalating confrontation in the Middle East.
The Iranian spokesman argued that the United Nations cannot effectively uphold its founding principles without directly condemning those responsible, warning that continued inaction could leave the organization facing the same fate as the League of Nations.
“UNSG Antonio Guterres (23 July 2026): -‘We see an alarming disregard for international law;
-Impunity is spreading; - Violations are going unanswered; each violation unanswered becomes the next violation’s precedent; - Trust is eroding; negotiated settlements are becoming harder to reach and maintain; - When parties prioritize military solutions over negotiated settlements, civilians pay the heaviest toll; - We see this on full display in the Middle East, with devastating consequences in the region and across the globe; - The region is being pulled into an ever-widening circle of confrontation’,” Baqaei wrote.
“You are absolutely right, Mr. Secretary-General. But why don’t you call a spade a spade? Why do you refuse to name the two primary culprits — the US and Israel? Why do you shy away from condemning those who have provided absolute impunity to the perpetrators of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression?” the Iranian spokesman reminded the UN chief.
“It is high time you shoulder your responsibility and help prevent the United Nations and its normative system from sharing the same fate as the League of Nations,” Baqaei said, addressing Guterres.