Kuwait urges continued UN oversight to resolve files of prisoners, missing persons, national archives
Kuwait’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Tareq Al-Bannai, underscored the necessity of continued international engagement — especially through the UN Security Council — to resolve the longstanding humanitarian issues of Kuwaiti prisoners, missing persons, and looted property, including the national archives.
Speaking before a Security Council session addressing the situation in Iraq, Ambassador Al-Bannai emphasized that these matters are not political disputes but human rights concerns affecting hundreds of families still seeking answers, report Al-Rai daily.
He stated that the return of the national archives is not symbolic, but essential to preserving Kuwait’s historical identity.
Al-Bannai criticized the lack of progress, noting that over 300 Kuwaitis remain unaccounted for decades after the events, and called the delay in justice a failure of the international system.
He expressed strong support for the UN Secretary-General’s recommendation to appoint a dedicated high-level official to continue oversight beyond the conclusion of UNAMI’s mandate in December 2025.
He stressed that consistent UN monitoring, practical implementation of Security Council resolutions, and the use of modern technology to uncover evidence are vital for accelerating progress. Kuwait, he said, will continue to work bilaterally with Iraq, but affirmed that international follow-up is indispensable to prevent further delays.
Al-Bannai concluded by thanking the UN and all contributing parties, reiterating Kuwait’s full commitment to pursuing justice and resolution until every file is closed.
