- Statement by ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on UN Security Council resolution 2231.
UK / USA – Let me start by welcoming the announcement by president Trump of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. But the situation remains extremely fragile. We call on all sides to respect the ceasefire in full.
Our priority remains stability in the Middle East, and we are clear that restarting this conflict is in no one’s interest. Now is the time for a return to diplomacy.
We, along with our partners, are clear that only diplomacy can achieve a durable solution to the Iranian nuclear threat. We urge Iran to take this opportunity to engage in negotiations now. It is critical that Iran does not miss this window for diplomacy.
President, as we know, Iran’s nuclear programme has been far beyond any credible civilian justification, including an enriched uranium stockpile 40 times the limit set by the JCPoA.
It is urgent that the IAEA have full access, especially on Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.
We have been clear that Iran cannot develop or acquire a nuclear weapon. The UK, alongside our E3 partners, stands ready to support efforts towards a negotiated solution. We will use all diplomatic levers at our disposal to support a negotiated outcome and ensure Iran does not develop a nuclear weapon.
President, finally, we commend the IAEA and the director-general for their vital work, including under the mandate of UN Security Council resolution 2231. They have displayed professionalism and impartiality, and they have our full support.
We urge Iran to cooperate with the IAEA in the interests of both safety and diplomacy.
Colleagues, we urge all parties to urgently pursue a deal that establishes international confidence long term that Iran’s nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful.
This ceasefire is the first step towards that.
