Statement by Oman on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council at the 4th session of the conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and other WMD

Statement by Oman on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council at the 4th session of the conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and other WMD

The statement condemns the statements made by Israeli government minsters threatening the use of nuclear weapons in Gaza and calls for a firm and effective response to these irresponsible statements, particularly through the UN, the Security Council, and the IAEA. The statement suggests this should be done so by subjecting Israeli nuclear facilities to the IAEA safeguards to ensure the absence of secret and undeclared nuclear activities, the GCC supports the IAEA in carrying out verification and monitoring tasks in this regard. The statement calls for the creation of a legal framework to establish an ME WMDFZ, as well as means of delivery systems. The statement emphasises the GCC view that the conference is an opportunity to exchange views, perspectives and experiences and have flexible and constructive discussions towards the establishment of a zone without making them final positions. The statement also emphasises the legitimate right of states to peaceful use of nuclear energy and emphasizes the need to ensure that the future treaty does not include additional measures that hinder states easy access to the necessary technologies. This includes attempts to impose additional commitments or impose new obstacles or restrictions on countries aspiring to establish peaceful nuclear programs.