UN envoy visits Iran as ceasefire opens 'space for diplomacy' to end war

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' Personal Envoy Jean Arnault arrived in Iran on a regional tour aimed at advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East war, according to a statement Wednesday.

"Acting on the Secretary-General's instructions, he is visiting countries across the region to support all efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive and durable resolution to the conflict," said a statement from the UN spokesperson's office.

Hailing a ceasefire agreement brokered by Pakistan and other partners in the war initiated by the US and Israel against Iran, the statement said the deal created "space for diplomacy to advance towards ending the war."

During his visit to Tehran, Arnault is expected to meet Iranian officials to hear their perspective on the path forward.

He will also convey Guterres' personal "commitment to making every effort to support a peaceful settlement."

"The Personal Envoy trusts that, in line with the Charter of the United Nations and international humanitarian law, all leaders will choose the path of peaceful resolution and the protection of civilians over a continued conflict," it added.