Qatar Advocates for UN Oversight of Israel’s Nuclear Facilities

Qatar has called for international supervision of Israel’s nuclear facilities, urging the country to comply with the NPT. Ambassador Jassim Yacoub al-Hammadi addressed the IAEA, stressing the importance of oversight and the protection of Palestinian rights. The appeal underscores concerns over nuclear proliferation and criticizes Western silence on Israel’s arsenal.

Qatar has reiterated its calls for international oversight of Israel’s nuclear facilities, urging increased interventions to ensure these sites are monitored by the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Jassim Yacoub al-Hammadi, Qatar’s ambassador to Austria, emphasized the necessity for Israel to comply with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as a non-nuclear state during his remarks in Vienna.

Al-Hammadi underlined the obligation of international institutions to uphold their commitments under various UN resolutions, notably the 1995 NPT Review Conference, which urged Israel to allow IAEA oversight of its nuclear operations. He pointed out that Israel uniquely remains the sole state in the Middle East not signatory to the NPT, with its nuclear position growing increasingly precarious in light of recent conflicts.

Further emphasizing human rights, the Qatari ambassador urged Israel to permit unrestricted access for international organizations and aid agencies in Palestine, calling attention to the necessity of protecting UN properties and essential infrastructure, comprising schools, medical facilities, transport systems, and water resources. He framed these measures as vital to restoring peace and stability in the region.

Qatar’s request resonates with previous demands presented during the 67th IAEA General Conference in September 2023, where similar appeals were made concerning Israel’s nuclear program. Although Israel has not officially acknowledged possessing nuclear weapons, estimates suggest it may have nearly 90 plutonium warheads, sufficient for producing up to 200 nuclear weapons, as reported by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

Moreover, there has been significant criticism directed at Western nations for their lack of response regarding Israel’s suspected nuclear capabilities, particularly in contrast to their proactive actions concerning nuclear oversight in nations such as Iran and North Korea.

In conclusion, Qatar’s appeal for UN oversight of Israel’s nuclear arsenal reflects broader concerns regarding nuclear proliferation in the Middle East. The emphasis on international accountability and Israel’s compliance with established agreements highlights ongoing tensions in the region. As states navigate these complex dynamics, the call for transparency resonates with regional aspirations for peace and stability.

Original Source: www.newarab.com