By René Wadlow

Seven months into the United States (U.S.)-Iran war, with threats of further military escalation and fears of worsening humanitarian suffering, the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, on an official visit to Pakistan on October 6, 2026, called for an end to the U.S.-Islamic Republic of Iran war. He hopes that Pakistan can play an important role in helping to establish negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.

The armed conflict began in February 2026 with the joint U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran followed by Iranian responses of attacks on U.S.-linked sites in Jordan and several Gulf states. Maritime passages have been blocked in the Straits of Hormuz. The conflict has had an impact on the wider region. Saudi Arabia and the coalition it backs in Yemen have begun a counter-offensive against the Houthis. Saudi Arabia has sent fighter jets to aid its anti-Houthi allies.

As a consequence of the armed conflict, the Iranian authorities are intensifying the crackdown on any form of internal dissent. The crackdown is particularly acute on members of Iran’s ethnic communities such as the Kurds and on economically disadvantaged citizens.

From the start of the armed conflict, the Association of World Citizens has called for negotiations in good faith to halt the fighting and to help rebuild the destroyed infrastructure. World Citizens have highlighted the need to empower local actors to work together for peace.

These needs continue today. The time for positive action may be short before violence spreads. Urgent action is needed. Nongovernmental Organizations may be able to play an active role.

Prof. René Wadlow is President of the Association of World Citizens.