THE HAGUE — Saudi Ambassador Ziad Al-Attiyah asserted that Israel cannot conceal its actions behind the Chemical Weapons Convention. Speaking at the 28th Conference of States Parties to the convention in The Hague, Al-Attiyah emphasized that the convention should not be compromised, underscoring the need for accountability for any violation committed by a signatory. In a resolute stance, he addressed Israel's aggression on Gaza, condemning it as a violation of the international order and a profound humanitarian concern. Saudi Ambassador to the Netherlands and Permanent Representative to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons Ziad Al-Attiyah reiterated Saudi Arabia's commitment to international cooperation in banning weapons of mass destruction and preventing their proliferation. Al-Attiyah emphasized Saudi Arabia's stance on making the Middle East as a region free from such weapons, underscoring the central role of the Chemical Weapons Convention in the global system for prohibiting and preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction, contributing to global security and peace. The ambassador condemned the Israeli aggression on Gaza, considering it a violation of the international order and a deep wound to humanity. He called for an immediate ceasefire and the initiation of addressing the humanitarian disaster. Regarding the Chemical Weapons Convention, Al-Attiyah stressed that no party should compromise its implementation. "The aggression on Gaza comes from a party committed to the convention, and it is not entitled to hide behind a signature without full commitment. "This does not exempt it from responsibility for any violation, and it is duty-bound not to undermine the objectives and purposes of the convention." He emphasized the need for any signatory to uphold the convention's purpose, and the extended use of signature without accession undermines the convention's universality. The ambassador reiterated Saudi Arabia's rejection of forced displacement calls for the Palestinian people in Gaza and condemned the continued targeting of civilians. He urged the immediate opening of safe passages to deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged civilians in Gaza. Al-Attiyah underscored the crucial role of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in maintaining international peace and security. He emphasized the importance of supporting the organization in implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention effectively and called for enhancing the organization's verification system. In light of the inauguration of the organization's Chemistry Center, the ambassador discussed the importance of sustaining its effectiveness through knowledge, skills, and scientific capabilities for the technical secretariat. He urged organization members to explore innovative solutions to bridge the gap between employment rules and the technical secretariat's needs.
