Pakistan has strongly condemned recent attacks on nuclear facilities and drone strikes targeting Saudi Arabia, while calling for restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts to reduce escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking during a special briefing on the situation in the Middle East at the United Nations Security Council, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad presented the country’s position following remarks by the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi.
Condemnation of UAE and Saudi Arabia Attacks
The Pakistani envoy strongly condemned the drone attack on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant on 17 May, describing it as a serious violation of international norms. He expressed full solidarity with the government and people of the United Arab Emirates and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of friendly countries in the region.
He also strongly condemned drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, calling them a grave violation of sovereignty and a threat to regional peace and stability. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to the security, prosperity, and stability of Saudi Arabia.
Nuclear Safety and International Law
The Pakistani representative reminded the Security Council that targeting nuclear facilities constitutes a serious breach of international law, including international humanitarian law, the UN Charter, and IAEA safety standards. He reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing position that civilian nuclear infrastructure must never be targeted under any circumstances.
He warned that such actions could have devastating and irreversible consequences for human life, the environment, and regional and global peace.
Diplomatic Efforts for Regional Stability
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad described the attacks as a warning sign amid rising regional tensions and urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint. He emphasized the need to comply with international obligations and avoid any steps that could further escalate the situation.
He stressed that diplomacy and dialogue remain the only sustainable path to lasting peace and stability in the region, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating diplomatic engagement and supporting peaceful resolution of conflicts.
