The UAE has strongly rejected Iran’s appointment to a leadership role at the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) review conference, warning that it undermines the credibility of the global non-proliferation system.
The dispute arose at the opening of the 11th NPT Review Conference at the United Nations in New York, where Iran was selected as one of 34 vice presidents through regional bloc nominations.
The UAE joined other countries in objecting to the decision, arguing that a state with unresolved concerns over nuclear safeguards and compliance should not hold a leadership position in a forum tasked with preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.
In its formal intervention, the UAE said Iran’s record of non-compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency (International Atomic Energy Agency) safeguards and its strained cooperation with inspections raise serious concerns about its suitability for such a role.
The UAE also warned that elevating Iran to a leadership position sends the wrong signal at a time of heightened regional tensions and risks weakening confidence in the NPT framework.
Several other countries, including the United States and European allies, also objected, saying the decision could damage the integrity of the treaty process.
The UAE emphasized that leadership roles within the NPT should be reserved for states that fully uphold their international obligations and contribute to global nuclear stability.
