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Delivered by H.E. Lana Nusseibeh, Permanent Representative

Mr. President,

We thank the briefers for their comprehensive presentations and for their commendable work in supporting the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015).

The UAE reiterates its unwavering commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and its support to all constructive efforts aimed at realizing non-proliferation objectives in our region and globally.

We welcome the verification and monitoring undertaken by the IAEA to ensure the implementation of the JCPOA, and we value the Agency’s contributions to regional and international peace and security. We remain deeply concerned by Iran’s decision to stop the implementation of its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA, including the Additional Protocol.

The continued expansion of enrichment activities in Iranian facilities—including uranium enriched to 20% and 60% levels—and the accelerated development and deployment of advanced centrifuges are also of deep concern.

We are also concerned by Iran’s decision to stop the implementation of necessary transparency measures, including the recent removal of IAEA’s surveillance cameras. We hope Iran will enhance its engagement and cooperation with the Agency to clarify and resolve all outstanding safeguards issues.

We reaffirm that the right to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes requires full adherence to safeguards obligations, compliance with relevant IAEA and UN Security Council resolutions, as well as full cooperation with the IAEA. We call on Iran to take steps to build confidence in its nuclear activities and to return to full compliance with the verification measures and limits established by the JCPOA, including the implementation of the Additional Protocol.

We thank the Secretariat for its visit to the UAE and note the findings in the Secretary-General’s report regarding ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) used by the Houthi terrorist group in terrorist attacks against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. These abhorrent terrorist attacks have been widely condemned, including by this Council. We reiterate our call for de-escalation and for taking steps to build confidence and ease regional tension. More generally, it remains critical that we join our efforts to counter the increasing availability of advanced technology and weapons to non-state actors, which represents a growing threat to international peace and security and destabilizes our region.

In conclusion, the UAE will continue to support diplomacy and dialogue to find common pathways forward towards achieving a peaceful and prosperous future for our region. We hope that talks can continue and be built upon.

Thank you, Mr. President.