Gulf States Condemn Iranian Attacks, Reserve Right to Respond

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states have strongly condemned recent Iranian attacks and affirmed their right to respond, citing violations of sovereignty and threats to regional stability.

In an extraordinary meeting held via video conference, the foreign ministers of the GCC, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, addressed the attacks, which they described as unjustified and unwarranted.

The ministers stated that the Iranian actions contravene international law and the UN Charter, irrespective of any justifications offered. They also emphasized that targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure constitutes a grave breach of international humanitarian law.

The GCC ministers expressed full solidarity, emphasizing that the security of each member state is indivisible and that an attack on one is an attack on all, as per the GCC's charter and joint defense agreement.

The council lauded the efficiency and readiness of the armed forces and air defense systems of member states, which successfully intercepted missiles and drones, mitigating the impact of the attacks and protecting lives and infrastructure.

The GCC statement, issued after the meeting, highlighted the extensive damage caused by the attacks, which targeted civilian facilities, service locations, and residential areas, endangering citizens and residents.

The ministers also discussed measures to coordinate efforts to restore security and stability in the region.

The GCC also expressed its appreciation for the support of allied nations that condemned the Iranian attacks and voiced solidarity with the council.

Despite diplomatic efforts by GCC countries to de-escalate tensions and assurances that their territories would not be used to launch attacks against Iran, the statement noted that Iran has persisted in military operations targeting civilian and residential sites within GCC member states.

The council urged the international community to condemn the attacks and called on the UN Security Council to take immediate action to prevent further violations, which endanger lives and threaten regional and international peace.

The GCC ministers stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in international relations as the only means to overcome the current crisis and safeguard the region's security.

The council reiterated that any escalation would undermine regional security and lead to dangerous consequences for international peace and security.

The GCC affirmed its commitment to dialogue and negotiation with Iran, acknowledging Oman's role in facilitating communication.

The ministers insisted on the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities to restore security, peace, and stability in the region, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the safety of air and sea lanes, supply chains, and global energy markets.

The GCC underscored that the stability of the Gulf region is not only a regional matter but also a cornerstone of global economic stability and maritime navigation.