Mexico’s President Urges UN to Promote Peace Amid Escalating Tensions
Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, has called on the United Nations (UN) to lead efforts in “building peace” following the recent US bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities. She expressed her concerns via her X account (@Claudiashein), citing Pope Francis and emphasizing that Mexico will always be a force for peace.
Sheinbaum’s Message
In her message, Sheinbaum highlighted that war represents “the greatest failure of humanity” and that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the “construction of justice.” She referenced Mexico’s Constitution, Article 89, Fraction X, which outlines eight principles guiding Mexico’s foreign policy, including the promotion of peace and security internationally.
México será siempre factor de paz. Nuestra Constitución, en su artículo 89, fracción X, enumera los ocho principios con base en los cuales el Poder Ejecutivo Federal debe conducir la política exterior de México: la autodeterminación de los pueblos, la no intervención, la solución pacífica de controversias, la proscripción de la amenaza o el uso de la fuerza en las relaciones internacionales, la igualdad jurídica de los Estados, la cooperación internacional para el desarrollo, el respeto, la protección y promoción de los derechos humanos y la lucha por la paz y la seguridad internacionales. Naciones Unidas debe ser hoy más que nunca la institución que llame a la construcción de la paz.
— Claudia Sheinbaum (@Claudiashein) July 4, 2022
Background and Context
The call for peace comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East following the US bombing of three key Iranian nuclear sites (Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan) using B-2 bombers. The Pentagon reported that these attacks caused “significant damage” to Iran’s nuclear program. In response, Iran launched 40 missiles towards Israel, targeting facilities near Tel Aviv.
- US bombs Iranian nuclear sites, claiming significant damage to the program
- Iran responds by launching 40 missiles towards Israel, targeting facilities near Tel Aviv
- Escalating tensions and exchanges of threats increase regional instability, with both Iranian and Israeli authorities warning of continued responses to ensure their security
Mexico’s Foreign Ministry’s Stance
The Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE) also issued a statement demanding an end to violence and advocating for diplomatic dialogue to ensure peace and security in the Middle East. The SRE reiterated Mexico’s pacifist tradition and constitutional principles guiding its foreign policy, prioritizing the de-escalation of tensions and restoration of peaceful coexistence among involved states.
UN Secretary-General’s Response
António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, described the US attacks on Iran as a “dangerous escalation in a region already at its limits” and a direct threat to international peace and security.
“There is a growing risk that this conflict could quickly spiral out of control, with catastrophic consequences for civilian populations, the region, and the world,” Guterres stated in a press release.
He emphasized that there is “no military solution” and that diplomacy is the only path forward, with peace being the sole hope.
The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Sunday at 15:00 New York time, announced Guyana’s delegation, which currently presides over the organization in June.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who called for peace following the US bombing in Iran?
A: Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, urged the UN to lead efforts in building peace. - Q: What principles guide Mexico’s foreign policy?
A: Mexico’s Constitution, Article 89, Fraction X, outlines eight principles guiding its foreign policy, including the promotion of peace and security internationally. - Q: How did the UN Secretary-General respond to the US attacks on Iran?
A: António Guterres described the attacks as a dangerous escalation and a direct threat to international peace and security, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and peace.
