Qatar has urged the international community to bring Israel’s nuclear facilities under IAEA oversight and for it to join the NPT as a non-nuclear state. This initiative comes amid ongoing violence and humanitarian crises in the region, emphasizing the need for protection of UN and international properties.
Officials from Qatar have urged international leaders to ensure that Israel’s nuclear facilities are subject to the oversight of the International Atomic Energy Agency and to advocate for Israel’s accession to the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons as a non-nuclear state. This call was articulated by Jassim Yacoub Al Hammadi, Qatar’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office, during a meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors in Vienna.
Al Hammadi highlighted that all countries in the Middle East, with the exception of Israel, are signatories to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) and maintain effective safeguard agreements with the IAEA. Additionally, he criticized Israel for its aggressive policies against Palestinians, particularly noting the intensification of military operations in Gaza, hindrances to humanitarian aid, and restrictions on United Nations relief efforts in the region.
Tensions in the region have escalated considerably since Hamas executed a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in over 1,200 fatalities. The ongoing conflict has led to immense casualties, predominantly among Palestinians, including a significant number of children.
Furthermore, Qatar has requested that international monitors ensure Israel upholds and safeguards the properties of the UN and other international bodies, which encompass schools, medical facilities, transportation infrastructure, and vital water resources. Although Israel has not officially acknowledged its nuclear arsenal, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reported in 2024 that Israel is estimated to possess at least 90 nuclear warheads.
Qatar has formally called for Israel’s inclusion in the NPT as a non-nuclear state and for its nuclear facilities to be monitored internationally. This appeal underscores ongoing tensions in the region and the humanitarian crises resulting from the prolonged conflict. Urging the protection of UN properties and humanitarian resources, Qatar seeks greater accountability for Israel’s actions amidst escalating violence.
Original Source: www.upi.com
