A firm stance from the Gulf Cooperation Council
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) expressed its strong condemnation and denunciation of the continued Iranian aggression and interference in the internal affairs of its member states. This condemnation stems from the GCC's firm stance rejecting any infringement upon the sovereignty of its member states or any threat to their security and stability. The Council affirmed that these practices are in direct contravention of international norms and laws and undermine all efforts aimed at building trust and achieving sustainable regional security in the Middle East.
The historical context of Gulf-Iranian relations
Historically, relations between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and the Islamic Republic of Iran have been marked by numerous periods of tension, primarily stemming from Iranian policies that the Gulf states consider destabilizing. The GCC states have consistently called upon Tehran to fully adhere to the principles of good neighborliness, respect the sovereignty of states, and refrain from interfering in their internal affairs, in accordance with the UN Charter. Among the most prominent outstanding historical issues that the Council consistently emphasizes is the dispute over the three Emirati islands (Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa). The Council reiterates its unwavering support for the United Arab Emirates' right to sovereignty over its islands and territorial waters and calls upon Iran to respond to the UAE's efforts to resolve the issue through direct negotiations or by referring it to the International Court of Justice.
Regional repercussions and their impact on the region's security
Regionally, these tensions have significant and serious repercussions for the security and stability of the Middle East. The Arabian Gulf region is a vital artery for global energy supplies, and any threat to maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz or the Red Sea negatively impacts the entire global economy. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states affirm that continued Iranian interference, whether through supporting armed militias in some Arab countries or through direct threats, contributes to prolonging crises and conflicts in the region, hindering the paths to development and prosperity to which all the peoples of the region aspire.
International significance and the role of the international community
Internationally, the Gulf position is of paramount importance given the global focus on Gulf security. The GCC states call upon the international community, including the UN Security Council, to uphold its legal and moral responsibilities in maintaining international peace and security and to take decisive action against any practices that threaten the region's stability. Furthermore, there is a shared Gulf and international concern regarding Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. The Council emphasizes that any international negotiations with Iran must comprehensively address its destabilizing regional behavior to ensure it does not acquire nuclear weapons and to curb the proliferation of weapons that threaten neighboring countries.
A future vision towards stability
In conclusion, the Gulf Cooperation Council remains committed to its strategic approach of promoting peace and stability, emphasizing that constructive dialogue based on mutual respect is the best way to resolve disputes. However, this dialogue requires concrete and practical steps from the Iranian side to change its approach and behavior in the region, ensuring the establishment of normal relations based on shared interests and respect for the sovereignty of states, free from threats or interference in internal affairs.
