The UAE, a member of the Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), has led a diplomatic initiative at the ITU Council in Geneva, presenting a draft resolution on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on the impact of attacks on civilian telecommunications and ICT infrastructure.
The resolution was presented by Jamal Al Musharakh, UAE Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva, on behalf of the GCC countries and Jordan, with the participation of Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, Director-General of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), and the accompanying delegation.
ITU resolution spotlights threats to ICT infrastructure
The ITU Council adopted the resolution by consensus, signaling broad international support for addressing attacks and threats to civilian telecommunications infrastructure and their impact on regional and global connectivity. It marks the first time the ITU has passed a resolution that clearly condemns attacks on civilian telecommunications and ICT infrastructure.
Al Musharakh stated that Iranian terrorist attacks had targeted civilian telecommunications and ICT infrastructure in the UAE as well as in several countries across the region and beyond. He stressed that such infrastructure is vital for public services, emergency communications, humanitarian coordination, economic activity, and international connectivity.
Al Musharakh also noted that the effects of these attacks go beyond the countries directly targeted, undermining the resilience and stability of regional and global digital networks.
Outlining response to ICT threats
The resolution outlines a measured and technical response, including monitoring, assessment, and reporting on the impact of such attacks and threats, particularly on regional and global connectivity. It further emphasizes the need to protect civilian ICT infrastructure to ensure global connectivity, stability, and sustainable development.
Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar Director General – TDRA
“Telecommunications and ICT infrastructure form the backbone of our shared digital future, and safeguarding them is a collective responsibility that ensures the continuity and stability of global connectivity for generations to come.”
The International Telecommunication Union is the United Nations’ specialized agency for information and communication technologies, tasked with coordinating global telecommunications networks and services. It plays a key role in setting international standards and advancing connectivity worldwide.
