Delivered By: HE Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative
Mr. President,
I would like to thank China for convening this important open debate, and for its commitment to strengthening multilateralism and international cooperation. I also wish to express my appreciation to Secretary-General Guterres for his briefing.
Mr. President,
Eight decades after the international community came together in pursuit of peace and a shared international order – effectively rejecting the doctrine of “might makes right” – the UN Charter remains our primary shield against global disorder and the bedrock of international cooperation.
It is our firm belief that long-term stability and prosperity cannot be built under conditions of permanent confrontation or ideological extremism, but rather through dialogue and de-escalation.
Yet, for too long, one State in our region has exploited its neighbors’ goodwill by continuing its destabilizing behavior, including its sponsorship of armed proxies. The result has been the creation of a dangerous culture of impunity and a perpetual cycle of escalation.
Over the last three months, the United Arab Emirates has faced unlawful and unprovoked attacks by Iran targeting our civilian infrastructure, including commercial ports, airports, energy infrastructure, and communications networks.
Additionally, Iran’s obstruction of the Strait of Hormuz, in violation of international law, has threatened maritime security while holding the global economy hostage.
Freedom of navigation is a cornerstone of international law, and this Council has a duty to protect it.
Last week, regional escalations reached a perilous threshold, when a terrorist drone attack launched from Iraqi territory targeted the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE.
The UAE reserves its full and inherent right to protect its territory and population, in accordance with international law.
As this Council underscored earlier this week, the attack on Barakah constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, and the UAE appreciates the Council’s swift condemnation of this act.
Mr. President,
The credibility of our international system depends on whether we are prepared to uphold its rules when they are violated.
In this regard, three areas require particular attention:
First, the deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure must be unequivocally condemned as a serious violation of international law. Such attacks must never be normalized.
Second, States must be held accountable for acts of aggression. This includes attacks carried out through proxy networks.
Finally, the Council must ensure the full and consistent implementation of its resolutions. Failure to do so erodes this Council’s authority.
In conclusion, Mr. President,
The UAE remains committed to a future based on stability and shared prosperity.
But lasting peace cannot coexist with impunity, which undermines the fundamental principles enshrined in the UN Charter.
We therefore call on the Security Council to uphold its responsibilities and act with the necessary resolve for the maintenance of international peace and security.
Thank you, Mr. President.