Kuwait has garnered the backing of 111 countries for a draft resolution on the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) annual report, positioning it as one of the most widely supported measures affirming the agency’s role in global peace, security, and development. The resolution was submitted to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, with Kuwait acting as chair of the IAEA Board of Governors for the 2026-2027 term.
Ambassador Tareq Al-Bannai, Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, explained that the draft builds on the IAEA Statute and the 1957 agreement between the agency and the UN, underscoring their institutional cooperation. He noted the draft draws from last year’s General Assembly resolution and incorporates recent decisions and statements from the IAEA’s 70th regular session, including the conference president’s remarks on key agenda items.
Al-Bannai acknowledged that one member state has maintained a reservation regarding the agency’s 2025 annual report, similar to previous concerns over earlier reports. Additionally, some countries highlighted that three resolutions referenced in a footnote had been adopted by vote rather than consensus. The ambassador clarified that the director general is expected to continue reporting on resolutions concerning ongoing agenda items until new mandates are established.
The draft resolution reiterates strong support for the IAEA’s central role in promoting nuclear energy’s peaceful applications, transferring technology to developing countries, and advancing nuclear safety, security, and verification processes. It urges member states to maintain backing for the agency’s activities, enabling it to fulfill its mandate effectively. Al-Bannai emphasized the importance of safeguarding the IAEA’s technical independence, professionalism, and impartiality amid complex international challenges.
He described the resolution as the outcome of thorough consultations held in Vienna and expressed hope that the General Assembly would adopt it without a vote, reflecting broad international consensus. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi praised Kuwait’s leadership, calling the support from 111 countries a “historic record” that signals the growing global recognition of the agency’s work.
Separately, Ambassador Al-Bannai addressed the United Nations on the occasion of United Nations Day, marking the organization’s 81st anniversary. He highlighted the need for comprehensive UN reforms, particularly to the Security Council, to enhance representational fairness and improve responsiveness to global crises. Stressing the importance of balanced attention to peace and security, development, and human rights, he called for consistency in upholding international principles without double standards.
Al-Bannai condemned recent attacks against Kuwait and other Gulf states, attributing them to Iran and stating they violated sovereignty and international law. He urged strict enforcement of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), which demands that Iran cease attacks against Gulf countries and Jordan and comply fully with its international obligations. The ambassador called on the Security Council to ensure compliance and prevent further provocations to safeguard regional and international stability.
On regional diplomatic efforts, Al-Bannai reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to de-escalation and peaceful conflict resolution, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and non-interference. On the Palestinian issue, he reiterated Kuwait’s support for Palestinians’ right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. He underscored the need to protect civilians, end forced displacement, and ensure humanitarian access, reinforcing backing for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
Al-Bannai concluded by affirming Kuwait’s long-standing dedication to the United Nations as the primary forum for addressing shared global challenges, guided by principles of sovereignty, peaceful dispute resolution, and international cooperation.