Prime Minister Gaston Browne

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Prime Minister Gaston Browne has expressed deep concern over the escalating hostilities in the Middle East, warning that recent military actions risk widening instability across an already fragile region.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, Browne referenced reported missile attacks by Iran directed at the territories of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and other sovereign Gulf States, as well as the ensuing military exchanges involving the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The Prime Minister condemned attacks against the territorial integrity of States that are not direct parties to a conflict, describing such actions as a serious breach of international law.

He cautioned that these developments heighten the risk of broader regional instability.

Browne echoed sentiments expressed within the international community, stating that the Iranian leadership must engage in good-faith negotiations to address serious issues of regional security. He stressed that diplomatic engagement is essential to reducing tensions and restoring stability.

Reaffirming Antigua and Barbuda’s unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter as the foundation of international peace and security.

At what he described as a critical juncture, Browne urged maximum restraint by all actors and called for the immediate de-escalation of hostilities. He warned that the expansion of military confrontation across borders serves no enduring interest and places civilian populations at grave risk.

Antigua and Barbuda also joined the call of the international community, including the United Nations Secretary-General, for renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent further deterioration and uphold the rule of law.

The Government expressed solidarity with the peoples affected by the conflict and voiced hope that dialogue and diplomacy, rather than force, will ultimately prevail.