Manama: The Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) convened in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, amidst reports of Iranian drone and ballistic missile attacks targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. This meeting, held against the backdrop of escalating regional tensions, addressed these developments with significant concern and denunciation.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the Ministerial Council condemned what it described as brutal Iranian attacks, labeling them as blatant aggression against the sovereignty of states, the security of their peoples, and a violation of international law and the principles of good neighborliness. The council expressed that these hostile acts hinder understanding and rapprochement, instead sowing discord and closing doors to dialogue, which the GCC states have consistently advocated for.
The council expressed unwavering solidarity and support for Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, affirming that the security of the GCC states is indivisible. It reassured citizens and residents that the joint defense capabilities are effectively confronting these attacks, emphasizing the leaderships' commitment to safeguarding regional security and stability. The council stated that these provocations would only strengthen the determination of GCC peoples to resist and confront aggression.
The GCC Ministerial Council reiterated the legitimate right of its states to self-defense and response to aggression, as per Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. It held Iran fully responsible for these acts and their potential repercussions on regional security, international navigation, and energy supplies, demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The council further called on the Security Council and the international community to condemn this aggression and hold its perpetrators accountable, ensuring respect for state sovereignty and the preservation of regional and international peace and security.
While reaffirming the GCC's commitment to peace, good neighborliness, and diplomatic solutions, the council posed a question on the feasibility of future relations given the continued aggression, emphasizing that persistence in such actions would lead to further isolation, while the path to understanding remains open to those who choose dialogue and wisdom.
