Statement by Ambassador , UK Permanent
Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on
UN Security Council resolution 2231.
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.
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