Call for Diplomatic Efforts to Ensure Peaceful Nature of Iran's Nuclear Program Amid Rising Tensions

The UN Security Council convened on June 24, 2025, at its headquarters in New York to discuss issues of non-proliferation, with UN Undersecretary-General for Political Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, stressing the importance of diplomatic engagement to ensure that Iran's nuclear ambitions remain peaceful. In her remarks to the Security Council regarding the execution of Resolution 2231—a resolution that supports the 2015 nuclear agreement involving Iran and six world powers—DiCarlo highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that there are fewer than four months remaining until the resolution's provisions expire on October 18, 2025.

DiCarlo pointed out that the original objectives of Resolution 2231 and the broader nuclear agreement have not yet been fully realized. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), created to ensure Iran's nuclear program would be for peaceful purposes, has encountered numerous challenges, particularly since the U.S. withdrew from the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump's administration. In recent months, nations involved in the agreement have intensified their efforts to find a viable path forward for its complete implementation, which included five rounds of direct discussions between Iran and the United States facilitated by Oman. Unfortunately, these efforts have not successfully established a clear direction for ensuring the peaceful intent of Iran's nuclear program.

The situation has been further complicated by military confrontations between Israel and Iran and recent U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear installations. Additionally, Iran's response involved strikes on a U.S. military base in Qatar, contributing to the existing volatility in the region. Nevertheless, DiCarlo noted a significant development with the announcement of a ceasefire agreement brokered by the U.S. and Qatar, which could provide a crucial opportunity to de-escalate tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution of Iran's nuclear situation.

She reiterated that the ongoing conflict primarily revolves around the nature of Iran's nuclear program and that the recent ceasefire presents a chance to prevent further catastrophic escalation. DiCarlo emphasized that continued diplomacy, open dialogue, and verification remain the most effective tools to ensure Iran's nuclear program remains peaceful and to deliver tangible economic benefits to the Iranian population. The United Nations is prepared to support initiatives aimed at fostering peace, dialogue, and regional stability.