Why it matters:
Rising nuclear tensions could lead to strategic miscalculations with catastrophic consequences and undermine global non-proliferation efforts.
Key Points:
The statement comes after Washington—despite signing the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) in 1996—has yet to ratify it, sparking renewed fears of a nuclear arms race.
Since 1945, more than 2,000 nuclear tests have been carried out worldwide, leaving lasting environmental and health impacts that the UN describes as “a legacy" that must not be repeated.
What they're saying:
- Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, told reporters in New York that the Secretary-General has repeatedly stressed that current nuclear risks are alarmingly high and urged states to avoid any actions that could cause miscalculation or escalation.
- Guterres reminded the international community of the catastrophic legacy of over 2,000 nuclear tests conducted in the past 80 years, adding that such testing must never be allowed under any circumstances.
The big picture:
Global arms control efforts are under increasing strain amid geopolitical rivalries, eroding trust among nuclear powers, and stalled disarmament talks. The UN’s warning underscores growing international anxiety about a potential rollback of decades of progress toward nuclear restraint.
Go deeper:
Iran’s FM Slams U.S. for Normalizing Nuclear Weapons Proliferation
seyed mohammad kazemi - seyed mohammad kazemi
