Iran Demands a ‘Nuclear-Free Middle East’ at UNGA: A Powerful Plea for Peace Following US Strikes on Nuclear Sites

At the recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Iran renewed its enduring call for a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East, sharply criticizing the nuclear policies of both the United States and Israel. This statement follows a significant escalation earlier this year when the U.S. executed a direct strike on Iranian nuclear facilities amid the ongoing Iran–Israel conflict. Iranian officials emphasized that lasting peace in the region is unattainable unless nuclear weapons are fully eradicated and Israel is held accountable under international law.

During its address at the UN, Iran warned that the proliferation of nuclear weapons represents a “disturbing and dangerous” threat to global stability. The Iranian delegation noted that ideas advocating “peace through strength,” particularly from nations with nuclear arsenals, are deeply concerning. “These notions have historically led to catastrophic consequences for humanity,” the statement said.

Tehran specifically condemned Israel for failing to respect legal and moral boundaries, urging the U.S. to exert pressure on Israel to sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). “We reiterate our call for the establishment of a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East, contingent on the U.S. holding Israel accountable and compelling it to join the NPT as a non-nuclear party,” the Iranian officials stated, adding that all of Israel’s weapons and facilities should be placed under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) oversight.

Iran’s renewed appeals come on the heels of Operation Midnight Hammer, a major U.S.-led offensive on June 22, 2025, which targeted Iran’s critical nuclear sites, including the Fordow and Natanz facilities. The operation was characterized by the use of 14 GBU-57A/B bunker buster bombs and Tomahawk missiles. U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the attacked facilities were “completely and totally obliterated.” This offensive marked the only direct U.S. military action during the Iran–Israel war, which had ignited on June 13 and concluded with a ceasefire on June 24, 2025.

Iran’s Director-General for International Peace and Security, Mohammad Hassani-Nejad, condemned the U.S. involvement, stating that Washington’s pursuit of “more usable nuclear weapons” heightens the risk of catastrophic conflict. He referred to the June 2025 assault as an “unprovoked war of aggression,” emphasizing that Israel, a non-party to the NPT, poses a significant threat due to its nuclear arsenal.

As tensions mount, Iran faces a new wave of UN sanctions, triggered by the E3 group-Britain, France, and Germany-due to accusations that Tehran failed to honor its commitments under the 2015 nuclear agreement. These sanctions aim to target various sectors and individuals connected to Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Measures include banning arms sales to Iran, restricting technology transfers, freezing assets linked to its nuclear activities, and imposing travel bans on those involved in prohibited activities. However, the enforcement of these sanctions remains uncertain as both China and Russia have indicated potential non-compliance, raising concerns about their efficacy.

Iran’s UN appeal arrives amid escalating regional tensions, where Western powers are apprehensive about Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, despite its claims of pursuing civilian energy objectives. The interplay of military actions, sanctions, and stalled diplomatic efforts exacerbates the risk of an arms race in the region. As Hassani-Nejad concluded at the UN, “The only sustainable path forward is the total and verifiable elimination of nuclear weapons.”

Keywords: Iran, nuclear weapons, UNGA, Middle East, Israel, United States, Non-Proliferation Treaty, regional stability, sanctions, nuclear arms race.

Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/iran-urges-nuclear-free-middle-east-at-un-after-us-obliterates-its-nuclear-sites-in-operation-midnight-hammer-11758953632520.html
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Publish Date: 2025-09-27 12:15:00