Libya calls for international oversight of Israel’s nuclear facilities

Libya has called for Israel’s nuclear facilities to be placed under international supervision, as part of renewed demands to rid the Middle East of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.

Speaking at the UN on behalf of the Arab Group, Libya’s permanent mission urged that Israeli nuclear sites be brought under the oversight of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The remarks were delivered during the Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in New York, where Libya, which currently chairs the Arab Group, voiced frustration over the failure of states to agree on a final outcome document.

The delegation blamed nuclear-armed states for the deadlock and reiterated what it described as the “inalienable right” of countries to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes without restrictions.

It also called for the implementation of a longstanding 1995 resolution to establish a nuclear weapons-free zone in the Middle East, warning that the lack of concrete steps and timelines reflects a retreat from international commitments.

Libya said it would continue to work with regional partners in support of international peace and security, while protecting national and development interests.