Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at UNSC meeting on the threats to international peace and security

Thank you Madam President.

Let me begin by thanking USG DiCarlo and Director General Grossi for their valuable contributions to today’s discussion.

Madam President,

Slovenia is deeply concerned with the overnight and today’s developments that threaten to destabilize an already very fragile state of affairs in the Middle East. We express our deepest concern with the Israeli strikes on Iran, and Iran’s response. We condemn any military escalation in the region.

Madam President,

Israeli attacks on nuclear installations in Iran come at a particularly volatile time, while talks between Iran and the United States on the status of Iran’s nuclear program are underway.

As both, my President, and the Prime Minister, have said – these negotiations have sparked a glimmer of hope to reach a deal that would be of substantial importance not only for the region, but for the whole international community.

Slovenia remains concerned with the size and unclear nature of Iran’s nuclear program. We have zero tolerance for proliferation of nuclear weapons. Moreover, our concerns are deepened by the fact that the IAEA still cannot confirm the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.

However, for us, strikes against civilian infrastructure, whether they happen in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, or anywhere else, are unacceptable.

Time and time again, Slovenia has cautioned against military action on Iran’s nuclear program. There is only one legitimate option and Slovenia remains confident that there is only a political solution to the issue.

With this in mind, Slovenia calls on Iran and the US to prioritize a peaceful solution and continue their talks in Muscat.

Madam President,

Lasting and robust security is built upon diplomacy, not military action. I join the Secretary-General’s call on both sides to show maximum restraint. Watching footage from the ground it is clear, the time to de-escalate is now, immediately. A descent into deeper conflict must be avoided at all costs. The region, and indeed the world, cannot afford it.

I thank you.

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