Dominica Warns US Strikes Threaten Caribbean 'Zone of Peace' at UNGA
UNITED NATIONS - Dominica's ambassador to the United Nations warned on Tuesday that recent US military strikes in the Middle East threaten the Caribbean region's long-standing "zone of peace," a concept that has been a cornerstone of regional diplomacy for decades.
Ambassador Vince Henderson made the comments during a UN General Assembly session, where he expressed concern over the potential consequences of escalating global tensions. "The Caribbean has always prided itself on being a zone of peace, free from conflict and violence," Henderson said. "But with the increasing frequency of military strikes by major powers, we risk undermining this hard-won stability."
Henderson's comments were echoed by other regional leaders, who emphasized the need for restraint in international relations. "We must not let the drums of war dictate our actions," said St. Lucia's Prime Minister Allen Chastanet. "The Caribbean has always been a beacon of peace and cooperation; we must continue to uphold this tradition."
The concept of a "zone of peace" was first introduced by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in the 1980s, with the aim of promoting regional stability and cooperation. Since then, the region has maintained a remarkable record of peaceful relations, despite its proximity to areas of conflict.
However, recent US military strikes against targets in Syria and Iraq have raised concerns among regional leaders about the potential for spillover effects into the Caribbean. "We understand that global security is a shared responsibility," said Dominica's Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit. "But we also believe that our region must be treated with sensitivity and respect, particularly given its unique history and cultural heritage."
The US has maintained a military presence in the Caribbean for decades, but recent developments have sparked debate about the role of foreign powers in regional affairs. While some countries see the US as a vital security partner, others view its actions as a threat to regional sovereignty.
As tensions continue to simmer, regional leaders are urging caution and restraint. "We must work together to address global challenges, rather than resorting to military force," said Guyana's President Irfaan Ali. "The Caribbean has always been a region of peace and cooperation; let us continue to uphold this tradition."
In the current climate, it remains to be seen how regional leaders will navigate the complex web of international relations. One thing is clear, however: the Caribbean's "zone of peace" is under threat, and its future hangs in the balance.
Contributing reporting by AP correspondents in New York and Port of Spain.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
