Kuwait has consistently voiced concerns regarding nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, and recently reiterated its call for international scrutiny of the nuclear capabilities of the Zionist entity. This stance was firmly presented during multiple international forums – the IAEA Board of Governors meeting in Vienna, the Palestine Donor Group (PDG) in Brussels, and discussions at the United Nations – highlighting Kuwait’s commitment to regional and global security, and the Palestinian cause. The core of Kuwait’s argument centers on ensuring a level playing field regarding nuclear safeguards and promoting a nuclear-weapon-free zone.
Kuwait Demands Accountability for Zionist Nuclear Program
During the IAEA Board of Governors meeting, Kuwait’s Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna, Talal Al-Fassam, emphasized the critical need for international accountability concerning the Zionist entity’s nuclear program. He specifically called for all nuclear facilities within the region to be subject to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) comprehensive safeguards system. This system is designed to verify the peaceful use of nuclear technology and prevent diversion to weapons programs.
Kuwait’s position aligns closely with that of the Arab Group, reinforcing a unified front on this sensitive issue. Ambassador Al-Fassam underscored the IAEA’s central role in verifying the peaceful intent of all nuclear activities, noting that all other nations in the Middle East adhere to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and implement the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement.
Historical Resolutions and Ongoing Concerns
The Zionist entity remains a notable exception, consistently refusing comprehensive oversight and actively resisting initiatives aimed at establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East. Kuwait’s concerns aren’t new; Ambassador Al-Fassam referenced previous resolutions, including UN Security Council Resolution 487 (1981), the 1995 NPT Review Conference, and the 53rd IAEA General Conference (2009). These resolutions all highlighted the Zionist entity’s non-compliance and the potential threat its undeclared nuclear program poses to regional stability.
Al-Fassam stressed the importance of maintaining this issue on the IAEA’s agenda until tangible steps are taken towards transparency and compliance. He believes this is essential for fostering a Middle East free from nuclear weapons and bolstering both regional and international security. The continued lack of oversight fuels anxieties and undermines efforts towards peaceful coexistence.
Supporting Palestinian Rights and Gaza Reconstruction
Meanwhile, Kuwait’s commitment extends beyond nuclear non-proliferation to encompass unwavering support for the Palestinian people. At the inaugural meeting of the Palestine Donor Group (PDG) in Brussels, Kuwaiti Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs, Ambassador Sadiq Marafi, reaffirmed Kuwait’s dedication to securing the legitimate rights of Palestinians.
This includes the establishment of a fully sovereign and independent Palestinian state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the internationally recognized June 4, 1967 borders and in accordance with international law. Kuwait’s support isn’t merely rhetorical; it actively backs initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Backing Regional and International Efforts
Ambassador Marafi specifically highlighted Kuwait’s backing of plans spearheaded by Saudi Arabia, France, the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, all designed to implement the Gaza conflict resolution outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2803. He also commended the European Union for hosting the PDG meeting and acknowledged the broader international efforts to stabilize Gaza financially and facilitate its recovery.
Crucially, Marafi called for a focus on addressing the root causes of the humanitarian crisis in the occupied Palestinian territories and holding the Zionist entity accountable for violations of international law and humanitarian principles. The PDG meeting, a significant gathering of ministers and officials from 60 nations and organizations, underscored the global importance of the Palestinian issue.
Kuwait Advocates for UN System Efficiency
On a separate but equally important front, Kuwait, representing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), actively participated in discussions at the United Nations regarding the UN80 initiative. This initiative aims to strengthen and streamline the UN system, improving its overall effectiveness and accountability.
Jassim Al-Amri, Second Secretary of Kuwait’s Permanent Mission to the UN, delivered a statement emphasizing the importance of active member-state participation in the UN80 process. He described the initiative’s action plan as a vital framework for enhancing transparency, coordination, and accountability across the entire UN system. The GCC stressed the need for regular consultations with member states, clear timelines for implementation, and robust oversight mechanisms for proposed reforms.
Ensuring Alignment with Member State Mandates
Al-Amri emphasized that any changes to regional initiatives, integrated platforms, or UN country team structures must align with the mandates established by member states. The GCC expressed its willingness to support proposals that strengthen regional commissions and enhance the operational capabilities of the UN. Launched in March and endorsed by the General Assembly in July, the UN80 initiative represents a significant effort to modernize and improve the UN’s ability to address global challenges. Kuwait’s consistent engagement in these forums demonstrates its commitment to a more effective and equitable international order. The focus on international accountability remains a central theme across all these engagements.
In conclusion, Kuwait’s recent diplomatic activity underscores its unwavering commitment to regional security, the Palestinian cause, and a more efficient United Nations. By consistently advocating for nuclear safeguards, accountability, and adherence to international law, Kuwait plays a vital role in promoting stability and peace in the Middle East and beyond. The nation’s proactive engagement in international forums highlights its dedication to collaborative solutions and a rules-based international system. Exploring further avenues for dialogue and implementing concrete measures for oversight are essential for achieving lasting progress.
