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Key Points

Egypt has reiterated its call for establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East. The country urges all regional nations to join the Non-Proliferation Treaty without any exceptions. This push comes ahead of next week's International Atomic Energy Agency General Conference in Vienna. Egypt believes such measures are crucial for preventing arms races and ensuring regional stability.

Key Points: Egypt Urges Middle East Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone at IAEA Conference

  • Egypt calls for universal NPT adherence in the Middle East ahead of IAEA conference
  • Stresses treaty prevents double standards in nuclear program handling
  • Highlights recent success in restoring Iran-IAEA cooperation
  • Expresses concern over Israel's non-NPT status fueling arms race
2 min read

Egypt renews call for Middle East nuclear-weapon-free zone

Egypt renews call for a nuclear-weapon-free Middle East, urging all regional countries to join the NPT without exception to ensure security and stability.

"Freeing the Middle East from nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction is an essential step to ensure regional and international security and stability - Egyptian Foreign Ministry"

Cairo, Sep 14

Egypt reiterated calls for a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Ahead of the 69th Regular Session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference, scheduled for next week in Vienna, Egypt urged all countries in the region to join the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) without exception, Xinhua news agency reported.

The ministry emphasised that adherence to the treaty would promote transparency, prevent double standards in handling nuclear programs, and help curb regional tensions.

"Freeing the Middle East from nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction is an essential step to ensure regional and international security and stability," the statement said. It added that such measures would also help halt an arms race that threatens global peace.

Egypt expressed concern about the continued existence of nuclear weapons and called on the international community to take concrete action to fully implement NPT obligations.

The statement also highlighted Egypt's recent efforts to restore cooperation between Iran and the IAEA. On Tuesday, Iran signed an agreement to resume cooperation with the agency, after suspending ties following Israeli and US strikes on its nuclear facilities and the killing of Iranian nuclear scientists in June.

Israel, meanwhile, has not joined the NPT, drawing criticism at the United Nations and fueling regional concerns over a potential arms race.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As an Indian, I appreciate Egypt's balanced approach. They're trying to mediate between Iran and IAEA while calling for regional stability. The Middle East needs more diplomatic voices like this rather than military posturing.
A
Aman W
Good initiative but difficult to implement. Israel's non-participation in NPT has been a longstanding issue. Without all regional powers on board, such zones remain theoretical. Hope the international community shows real commitment this time.
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Sarah B
While I support nuclear non-proliferation, we must acknowledge that some countries feel threatened by their neighbors. Security guarantees need to be part of any such agreement. It's not just about giving up weapons but ensuring mutual safety.
V
Vikram M
Egypt is right about preventing double standards. The same rules should apply to all nations in the region. The international community often turns a blind eye to certain nuclear programs while punishing others. Consistency is key for credibility.
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Nikhil C
This proposal makes sense but implementation is the challenge. Look at how Iran's nuclear facilities were attacked and scientists killed - such actions undermine trust. Confidence-building measures must come first before any disarmament talks.

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