UN Chief Warns of Nuclear Complacency at Global Non-Proliferation Talks

(MENAFN) António Guterres on Monday warned that the world is becoming dangerously complacent about nuclear weapons, as global leaders gathered in New York for a major review of the international non-proliferation framework, according to reports.

Speaking at the opening of the 11th Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons at United Nations headquarters in New York City, Guterres said the meeting comes at a critical moment for global security and stability.

“This conference provides a timely opportunity to stand together and safeguard humanity from the grave threat of nuclear annihilation,” he said, warning that international norms designed to prevent nuclear escalation are weakening.

He cautioned that what he described as a “collective amnesia” is taking hold globally, with rising tensions and reduced trust between major powers. “Nuclear sabers rattle once more. Mistrust rules the day. Hard-won norms are eroding. Arms control is dying,” he said, according to reports.

Guterres pointed to several worrying developments, including the increase in global nuclear warheads after years of decline, renewed discussion in some countries about resuming nuclear testing, and signs that certain states may be reconsidering nuclear weapons development.

“Have we forgotten that a nuclear war cannot be won and must not be fought?” he asked.

“Have we forgotten that nuclear weapons make no one safer? Have we forgotten that the only reason the world did not tumble into the abyss was because leaders stood together and said: Enough?”

He urged all parties to uphold their commitments under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which has been in force since 1970 and remains the central pillar of the global nuclear governance system, according to reports.

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