Strong Gulf condemnation of the hostile attack
The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Mr. Jassem Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, strongly condemned the hostile attack targeting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using drones launched from Iraqi airspace. In an official statement, Mr. Al-Budaiwi affirmed that this blatant aggression constitutes a flagrant violation of security and stability in the region and reflects the continued dangerous escalation adopted by some armed groups. He explained that such attacks undermine regional security, threaten the safety of vital installations and infrastructure, and terrorize innocent civilians.
Absolute Gulf solidarity with the security of the Kingdom
The Secretary-General emphasized the firm and unwavering position of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stating that the security of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an integral part of the security of all GCC member states. He affirmed the Gulf states' unwavering support for the Kingdom in all measures and deterrent actions it takes to preserve its security and stability, and to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any external threats, based on the principle of collective defense and shared destiny that unites the GCC countries.
Historical context and ongoing threats
This condemnation comes within a historical context marked by repeated attempts to target Saudi territory with explosive-laden drones and ballistic missiles by armed militias in the region. In recent years, the Kingdom has been subjected to several similar attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and vital economic facilities, most notably the attacks on Aramco oil facilities and civilian airports. The use of Iraqi airspace in this latest attack represents a significant development, highlighting the complex security challenges facing the region and the necessity for concerted regional and international efforts to prevent the use of neighboring countries' territories as launchpads for cross-border attacks that violate national sovereignty.
Local, regional and international impacts
Regionally and internationally, this event carries profound implications. Domestically, Saudi Arabia continues to bolster its air defense systems, which have proven highly effective in intercepting and destroying these threats before they reach their targets, thus ensuring the protection of citizens and residents. Regionally, this attack strengthens the cohesion of the Gulf Cooperation Council and encourages greater joint security and military coordination to counter asymmetric threats. Internationally, targeting the Kingdom's infrastructure, which is among the world's largest energy exporters, poses a direct threat to the stability of global energy markets and the security of the international economy. Therefore, the United Nations and the international community have consistently called for an end to these hostile attacks, which violate international laws and norms and undermine efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East.
A firm message to preserve stability
In conclusion, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states reaffirm their commitment to collective defense, sending a clear message that any attack on the security of any member state is an attack on the entire system. Gulf diplomacy, bolstered by deterrent power and high readiness, remains the cornerstone of preserving national achievements and protecting the region from sliding into wider conflicts, while emphasizing the Kingdom's legitimate right to respond and defend its assets.
