15:41 16 June 2019
Guterres calls for independent investigation of attacks on tankers
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Friday to conduct an independent investigation to determine who is responsible for the attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. The US is blaming Iran for these attacks, and Tehran firmly rejects these accusations.
"It is very important to know the truth and clarify the question of responsibility, which can only be done if there is an independent entity that will verify the facts," Guterres told reporters. He added that only the Security Council could order such an investigation by the UN. At the same time, he stressed that the world can not afford a larger armed confrontation in the Gulf.
Incidents in the Gulf of Oman have further deteriorated relations between Washington and Tehran. Both sides said that they are not interested in starting a war, but this has not reduced the fears that the situation may get out of control.
(PAP)
