US objects as Iran elected vice president at nuclear treaty conference

Tensions surfaced at the United Nations during a conference on the implementation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), after Iran was elected as one of the vice presidents of the session.

The development drew a strong reaction from the United States, with American officials openly opposing Iran’s selection. During the proceedings, there was a heated exchange between US and Iranian delegates, highlighting deep divisions over nuclear policy and global security issues.

US representative Christopher Yeaw criticised the decision, calling Iran’s election “an affront” to the principles of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. He argued that Iran’s record raised serious concerns about its suitability for such a role within the conference framework.

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In response, Iranian delegate Reza Najafi rejected the US remarks, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. He accused Washington of double standards, pointing out that the United States remains the only country to have used nuclear weapons in history.

Najafi further stated that Iran is a signatory to the NPT and remains committed to its obligations, while noting that Israel has not signed the treaty. He questioned the credibility of US criticism in light of these facts.

The conference, which marks the 11th session focused on reviewing the implementation of the NPT, saw the election of 34 vice presidents representing different regions and groups.

The incident reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding nuclear policy, particularly between the United States and Iran, and underscores the challenges facing international efforts to promote non-proliferation and global security.