The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has adopted a resolution introduced by Egypt, calling for the application of comprehensive safeguards to all nuclear installations in the Middle East. The resolution, adopted by a large majority at the IAEA's 70th General Conference, aims to promote the universalization of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (TNP) and the establishment of a nuclear-free zone in the region. According to the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the resolution reflects Egypt's commitment to strengthening security and stability in the region.
The resolution, which garnered the support of 112 countries with no votes against and 9 abstentions, builds on a similar resolution adopted last year. The text specifically calls on states in the region to adhere to the TNP, with 111 votes in favor, 2 against, and 9 abstentions. Egypt's position on the treaty emphasizes its role in preserving and strengthening international peace and security since its conclusion in 1968. The Egyptian government stresses the need for the international community to assume its responsibilities and respect all legal commitments under the treaty.
The IAEA resolution also calls for the establishment of a zone free of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. Until such a zone is established, the text urges states in the region to refrain from actions that could compromise its realization, including the development, production, testing, or acquisition of nuclear weapons. Egypt highlights the importance of the international community's support in achieving this goal, particularly from countries with a special responsibility for maintaining international peace and security.
The adoption of the resolution is seen as a significant achievement for Egypt, reflecting its weight within international organizations and its consistent position on regional security issues. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that the resolution's adoption demonstrates the country's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. The IAEA's Director-General will submit a report on the implementation of the resolution at the agency's 71st General Conference in 2027.
The resolution's adoption comes ahead of the seventh session of the United Nations Conference on the Establishment of a Zone Free of Nuclear and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Middle East, scheduled for November 2026 in New York. Egypt views this conference as an opportunity for regional countries to engage in constructive dialogue and encourage adherence to the TNP. The conference aims to promote the universalization of the treaty and the effective creation of a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East.
Egypt has been a member of the IAEA since September 4, 1957, and has consistently supported the agency's efforts to promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy and ensure nuclear safety and security. The IAEA currently has 181 member states, and its General Conference is the supreme decision-making body, meeting annually to review and approve the agency's program, budget, and strategic orientations.
The Egyptian government looks forward to continued cooperation with the IAEA in promoting regional security and stability. The country's ambassador to Austria, Abdelatty, recently praised the IAEA's technical support for Egypt's nuclear program during a visit to Vienna. The adoption of the IAEA resolution demonstrates Egypt's commitment to regional and international cooperation in promoting peace and security.
Key points
- Egypt's resolution calls for comprehensive nuclear safeguards in the Middle East
- The resolution aims to promote the universalization of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
- The IAEA's adoption of the resolution reflects Egypt's commitment to strengthening regional security and stability
