Statement by Saudi Arabia at the Sixth Session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other WMD

Statement by Saudi Arabia at the Sixth Session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other WMD

Saudi Arabia stresses in its statement that confidence-building measures, good neighbourly relations, and resolving outstanding issues are essential steps to create the necessary environment to make progress on the Zone. 
The statement expresses concern over undeclared nuclear activities and facilities in the region, specifically criticising Israel for maintaining nuclear activities outside IAEA comprehensive safeguards and for statements made in 2023 suggesting possible use of nuclear weapons against civilians in Gaza. Saudi Arabia emphasises the need for unconditional negative security assurances and underscores the central role of the IAEA in implementing safeguards under the NPT. It rejects any attempts to impose obligations beyond established international frameworks and reaffirms the right to access nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. Saudi Arabia reiterates that discussions at the conference cannot be considered final or binding in the absence of Israel’s participation and calls for gradual and steady negotiations to ensure the success of a future treaty.