Explanation of Vote on Non-proliferation (Iran) resolution

Saturday, 15 August 2020 08:35

Ambassador Jonathan Allen explains the United Kingdom's position on the Vote on Non-proliferation (Iran) resolution (S/2020/797) We have repeatedly set out our concerns about Iran’s destabilising behaviour in the region, including through the transfer of weapons to Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, in violation of resolution 2231....Request free trial

Ambassador Jonathan Allen explains the United Kingdom's position on the Vote on Non-proliferation (Iran) resolution (S/2020/797)

We have repeatedly set out our concerns about Iran’s destabilising behaviour in the region, including through the transfer of weapons to Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, in violation of resolution 2231.

We therefore share the concerns expressed by a number of Council Members about the scheduled expiry of existing arms restrictions on Iran this October. E3 Foreign Ministers have been clear that expiry of these restrictions would have major implications for regional security and stability.

The UK abstained on this resolution because it was clear that it would not attract the support of the Council and would not represent a basis for achieving consensus. It would therefore not contribute to improving security and stability in the region. Nevertheless, we stand ready to work with Council Members and JCPoA participants to seek a path forward that could secure the support of the Council.

The United Kingdom remains resolutely committed to the JCPoA and to preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. With our French and German colleagues, we are committed to taking forward the JCPoA’s Dispute Resolution Mechanism negotiations, with the desire to bring Iran back into compliance with the agreement.

We do not support a move to snapback at this time, which would be incompatible with our current efforts to preserve the JCPoA.