United Nations General Assembly: Debate on the use of the veto (Non-proliferation)

Mr President,

Thank you for convening us today.

New Zealand is a long-standing opponent of the veto and a core supporter of the Veto Initiative.

While we are therefore pleased to see those P5 members who choose to use their veto power called to account before the General Assembly, the regularity with which this still occurs is highly regrettable and disappointing.

New Zealand has a long-standing commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. We remain convinced that nuclear war must be avoided, and that the only way to eliminate the risks posed by nuclear weapons and avoid their catastrophic humanitarian consequences is their total elimination.

We continue to be gravely concerned by Iran's failure to resolve outstanding nuclear safeguards issues and provide the cooperation required by the International Atomic Energy Agency. New Zealand supported the IAEA Board of Governors' recent resolution requesting that Iran be reported to the Security Council. We urge Iran to fulfil its legal obligations and cooperate fully and transparently with the IAEA.

New Zealand has consistently supported diplomatic efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons from any source. The international community has deep concerns about Iran's non-compliance with its obligations. We consider the reimposition of the UN sanctions on Iran, following the triggering of the snapback in August last year, was therefore an appropriate response.

We are disappointed over the ongoing dispute among the Council's permanent members over the Iran sanctions regime and the work of the 1737 Committee.

Effective implementation of Security Council sanctions plays an important role in addressing proliferation risks and supporting international peace and security. Sanctions are most effective when implemented collectively, helping to prevent the spread of dangerous weapons.

The panels of experts established under the Council's respective sanctions committees have a key role in monitoring sanctions and providing independent, thorough and detailed evidence and recommendations to UN members.

Notwithstanding the disappointing recent failure to agree on the renewal of the 1737 Panel of Experts, New Zealand takes seriously its obligations as a UN member to implement the sanctions agreed by this Council. We moved quickly to reimpose sanctions on Iran in October 2025, following the triggering of snapback.

Finally, we remain concerned that the ongoing position of some Council members to prevent constructive action on the 1737 Iran Sanctions Committee continues to have negative wider ramifications for this Council's work. The delay in appointing Chairs and Vice-Chairs for all subsidiary bodies undermines this Council's effectiveness and, ultimately, its credibility.

Thank you.

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