New York (TDI): Pakistan has warned that the breakdown of diplomacy in the Middle East is further complicating the Iranian nuclear issue, as the United Nations Security Council discussed growing tensions and sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear program.
Addressing the Council, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, highlighted deep divisions within the Security Council regarding the work of the sanctions committee overseeing Iran’s nuclear activities.
“The Council remains divided on the 1737 Committee issue,” Ambassador Ahmad said, noting that disagreements among member states were delaying the appointment of chairs for key subsidiary bodies and hampering their work.
The 1737 Committee was established under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1737 to monitor sanctions imposed on Iran’s nuclear program and review reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Ahmad stressed that political differences should not obstruct the routine functioning of the Council or its subsidiary bodies, warning that continued divisions risk undermining efforts to address critical nuclear-related concerns.
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The discussion took place amid escalating tensions across the Middle East. In separate remarks, António Guterres warned that the crisis represents a “grave threat to international peace and security” and has already caused significant suffering for civilians.
He cautioned that further military escalation could trigger a broader and uncontrollable regional conflict, urging all parties to pursue de-escalation, dialogue, and renewed negotiations.
Ambassador Ahmad said recent developments, including what he described as “unprovoked and unwarranted attacks on Iran,” had significantly affected the context of the nuclear issue.
“Regrettably, the breakdown of diplomacy on the Iranian nuclear issue has further complicated an already complex matter,” he said, noting that the situation had been deteriorating for several months.
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Despite the tensions, the Pakistani envoy emphasised the continued relevance of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and the consensus adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231.
He described the nuclear deal as a unique example of diplomacy and pragmatic negotiation aimed at addressing the concerns of all parties through reciprocal commitments.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s opposition to the use of force, Ahmad condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities operating under IAEA safeguards, warning that such strikes carry serious environmental and safety risks for the wider region.
He also stressed the importance of the IAEA’s verification mandate, stating that its work must remain impartial and uninterrupted to ensure compliance with international nuclear safeguards.
Referring to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2788, which emphasizes peaceful dispute resolution, Ahmad urged the Security Council to revive the spirit of diplomacy to break the cycle of escalation in the region.
