UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has criticised Israel’s strikes on Beirut that threatened US plans for Washington and Tehran to sign a framework peace deal later in the day, AFP reports.

“The strikes took place despite the ceasefire and at a time when the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran are expected to reach an agreement that will pave the way to a peaceful resolution of this conflict,” he said in a statement.

“I urge all parties to show maximum restraint at this crucial moment.”