"The United Nations voiced alarm over escalating violence between Afghanistan and Pakistan, while also urging continued diplomacy in indirect talks between the United States and Iran, during a press briefing in New York City on Friday. UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said the Secretary-General is "deeply concerned by the escalation of violence we are seeing between Afghanistan and Pakistan and the impact that violence is having on civilian populations." "He calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, and he reiterates his call on the parties to resolve any differences through diplomacy," Dujarric persisted. The UN also raised concerns about reported attacks affecting civilians inside Afghanistan, including an incident at a transit and reception centre at the Torkham border crossing in the country's east. "We continue to call on all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular to ensure that civilians are protected at all times, as well as civilian infrastructure," he asserted. Asked about reports that Pakistan described the situation as an 'open war', Dujarric said the UN's political mission in Kabul is closely monitoring developments and maintaining contacts on the ground. Turning to Iran, the spokesperson stated that the secretary-general welcomes the continuation of the indirect talks mediated by Oman between Washington DC and Tehran. He urged both sides to work "with determination and in good faith towards a lasting agreement," stressing that "full and comprehensive IAEA verification is essential for any successful resolution of the Iran nuclear issue." Responding to questions about several countries urging their nationals to leave Iran amid fears of possible conflict, Dujarric acknowledged mixed signals in the region. "We're seeing both positive messages come out of the diplomatic track, which we're continuing to encourage. We're also seeing very worrying military movements throughout the region, which is extremely concerning as well," he asserted. "Clearly, we encourage everyone to focus on the diplomatic track." On Israel's top court suspending a halt to operations by more than 35 NGOs in the Palestinian territories, Dujarric reiterated the UN's reliance on humanitarian partners. "We as a UN system could not do what we do without that partnership. And we want to see them be able to continue their work." Separately, the United Nations Security Council met this week to discuss the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. UN officials reported continued shortages of electricity, water and medical supplies, while calling for expanded access for aid deliveries."