Egypt Condemns Israeli Nuclear Threats Amid Gaza Conflict And Calls For Disarmament

Egypt has expressed concern over the current deadlock in nuclear disarmament efforts. The country is alarmed by recent Israeli statements hinting at the potential use of nuclear weapons in Gaza. Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, criticised Israel's actions, describing them as severe breaches of international and humanitarian law.

During a high-level meeting on the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, held alongside the 80th UN General Assembly session, Abdelatty highlighted these issues. He condemned Israel's policies of starvation and forced displacement against Palestinians as violations without precedent.

The minister reaffirmed Egypt’s dedication to making the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) universal, especially in the Middle East. He believes this is crucial for safeguarding regional populations from nuclear threats. Abdelatty pointed out that the 1995 Review and Extension Conference resolution on a nuclear-free Middle East is vital for the Treaty's indefinite extension.

He also stressed the significance of observing this international day to draw attention to the dangers posed by nuclear weapons to global peace and security. Egypt fully supports statements from groups like the Non-Aligned Movement, African Group, and Arab Group advocating for nuclear disarmament.

Abdelatty emphasised that countries possessing nuclear weapons have both moral and legal obligations under the NPT. They must dismantle their arsenals in a way that is verifiable and irreversible. He called for tangible steps towards disarmament to ensure success at the upcoming 11th NPT Review Conference.

The minister noted that it has been 15 years since a final document was adopted at an NPT review conference. This highlights the urgency for progress in disarmament efforts to maintain momentum towards global security goals.

Egypt remains committed to promoting peace through nuclear disarmament initiatives. The country continues to advocate for a Middle East free from nuclear weapons as part of its broader strategy for regional stability.

With inputs from WAM