United nations: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Group at the United Nations has reiterated its condemnation of Israeli occupation's repeated remarks on the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons in the region. The GCC views these remarks as a serious violation of international norms and a direct threat to both regional and international peace and security.
According to Kuwait News Agency, this statement was delivered by the Deputy Permanent Representative of the State of Kuwait to the United Nations, Minister Plenipotentiary Faisal Al-Enezi. He spoke on behalf of the GCC Group at the Sixth Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction, held at the UN General Assembly.
Al-Enezi emphasized the need for Israel to join the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a non-nuclear-weapon state and to place its nuclear facilities under the comprehensive safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He warned that the presence of parties not subject to comprehensive safeguards or disarmament and non-proliferation treaties contributes to regional instability and an arms race.
He further urged the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone as a preventive mechanism to ensure transparency and prevent new arms races, highlighting that Israel is the only regional party not part of treaties related to weapons of mass destruction.
Al-Enezi affirmed the right of all regional countries to the peaceful use of nuclear energy under the NPT's provisions, stressing the importance of adhering to international safeguards that ensure nuclear programs remain peaceful. He also highlighted the role of the General Assembly resolution mandating UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to invite regional countries to participate in the conference to achieve a legally binding instrument for the desired zone.
The GCC's commitment to the 1995 NPT Review and Extension Conference resolution on the Middle East and the outcomes of the 2010 Review Conference were reiterated as foundational references for this process. Al-Enezi also welcomed the progress in discussions and proposals by the conference's working committees, focusing on security assurances, dispute resolution, and cooperation among nuclear-weapon-free zones.
He acknowledged developments related to the ceasefire plan in Gaza, appreciating efforts by Qatar, Egypt, the United States, and Turkey in facilitating its implementation and ensuring humanitarian aid delivery. The success of these efforts, Al-Enezi noted, underscores the need for a comprehensive security approach, including the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone as crucial to lasting peace in the Middle East.