The UN chief says diplomacy can secure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and address Iran’s nuclear concerns, while urging stronger international action to protect Palestinians.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a peaceful resolution of tensions involving Iran, saying there is an opportunity to secure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and address concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme through diplomacy.

Guterres made the remarks on Monday during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, where the two leaders discussed escalating tensions in the Gulf, the Palestinian issue and reforms to the United Nations.

According to a statement from the Egyptian presidency, the meeting also focused on the need to address the growing challenges facing the Middle East and strengthen international efforts to secure lasting peace in the region.