UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has once again acknowledged and commended Pakistan for its mediation efforts for peace in the Middle East.

Speaking at his regular news briefing in New York, the Secretary General's spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the only way to reach a durable settlement to the Gulf crisis is through dialogue.

He said the UN Secretary-General remains concerned about any potential escalation of hostilities between the United States and Iran and is very much appreciative of the mediation efforts by Pakistan, Qatar, Egypt and others who are doing their best to lead to a political solution.