Statement by the foreign ministers of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation member states on the situation in the Middle East

We, the foreign ministers of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation member states, express our utmost concern over the dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East. We strongly condemn the use of force against the Islamic Republic of Iran in violation of the United Nations Charter and international law, extend our sincere condolences to all affected parties and grieve for the victims of mutual strikes.

We emphasise that any attacks targeting civilian facilities, including nuclear energy infrastructure, are categorically unacceptable and represent a gross violation of the principles and norms of international law. These actions pose the risk of further destabilising the region and are fraught with devastating consequences for global peace and stability, while also undermining efforts to create a zone free of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East.

We urge all parties to abandon forceful methods of resolving disputes and to prevent further attacks on nuclear facilities and sites under IAEA safeguards and verification.

We are confident that peaceful, political, and diplomatic efforts remain the only viable approach to addressing the Iranian nuclear programme issue. In this regard, we note the Iranian leadership’s recent statements reaffirming its continued commitment to the country’s obligations under the NPT.

We welcome the ceasefire and hope for its sustained observance. We support the efforts of all states working to promote de-escalation and achieve a lasting settlement.