The Gulf Cooperation Council condemns Iranian aggression: strongly worded statement
The foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states strongly condemned Iran's continued aggressive policies in the region, affirming their categorical rejection of any interference that infringes upon the sovereignty of member states or threatens regional security and peace. This came during a ministerial meeting that emphasized the need for Tehran to adhere to the principles of good neighborliness and international law.
A unified Gulf stance against threats
In its final statement, the Ministerial Council affirmed that the security of the GCC states is indivisible, and that any attack on any member state is considered an attack on all member states. The ministers discussed the current challenges facing the region, noting that Iran's continued destabilizing behavior, whether through its support of sectarian militias or its development of missile programs, poses a direct threat to international navigation and global energy supplies.
Historical background and the islands dispute
Against the backdrop of the historical tensions, the ministers reaffirmed the GCC states' firm stance rejecting Iran's continued occupation of the three islands (Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa) belonging to the United Arab Emirates. The statement indicated that this issue remains a major obstacle to improving relations, calling on 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, which Tehran consistently rejects.
The importance of regional and international stability
This condemnation is of paramount importance given the strategic location of the Arabian Gulf region, a vital artery of the global economy. Observers believe that escalation in this sensitive region not only affects the Gulf states but also has repercussions for global markets, particularly concerning oil prices and supply chains. Therefore, the Gulf call for restraint and adherence to international law serves as a message of reassurance to the entire international community.
Calling on the international community to assume its responsibilities
The ministers concluded their statement by calling on the international community and the Security Council to assume their responsibilities in halting these practices that threaten international peace and security. They emphasized that the GCC states will continue their diplomatic efforts to ensure the stability of the region, while reserving their legitimate right to defend their national achievements and protect their people from any external threats.
