Manama: Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and current President of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministerial Council, chaired the 167th session of the Council attended by GCC foreign ministers and Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, GCC Secretary General. Dr. Al Zayani conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, expressing hopes for strengthened Gulf cooperation and integration.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Al Zayani addressed serious challenges, highlighting Iranian attacks that targeted infrastructure and residential areas, causing significant losses. He noted the impact of the Strait of Hormuz closure on maritime navigation and the global economy, citing violations of international law. The Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait were part of a hostile approach, constituting a violation of state sovereignty, though intercepted by air defense systems.
Dr. Al Zayani commended GCC states for their solidarity and readiness in facing aggression, praising GCC leaders' wisdom in addressing developments. He noted the ministerial meeting followed the 19th consultative meeting of the GCC Supreme Council in Jeddah, which discussed the Strait of Hormuz closure implications. He expressed pride in the Supreme Council's recommendations for effective responses and strengthening joint Gulf action.
As part of Bahrain's presidency, a guiding paper was submitted to consolidate coordination among member states. Dr. Al Zayani expressed pride in the efficiency of GCC armed forces in countering Iranian attacks and extended condolences to victims. He commended GCC security agencies for uncovering networks linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, reflecting high readiness in safeguarding sovereignty.
The Foreign Minister applauded diplomatic efforts at the United Nations to mobilize support against Iranian attacks. Bahrain, as President of the GCC session and a UN Security Council non-permanent member, ensured the GCC voice was influential, resulting in the adoption of resolutions condemning the attacks and calling for navigation protection.
Dr. Al Zayani emphasized GCC's commitment to peace, advocating diplomatic mediation to resolve conflicts. He stressed that real security is achieved through adherence to international law, and that the defense of sovereignty is a non-negotiable principle. The Council will continue to take legitimate measures for security, while advocating for peace and cooperation.
The Council discussed agenda items related to joint Gulf action, including outcomes of the 19th consultative meeting. It reviewed Bahrain's document reflecting His Majesty the King's vision for coordination among member states. Recommendations from ministerial committees and reports from the GCC General Secretariat on joint cooperation were examined.
The Council reviewed progress on free trade agreements, welcoming negotiations with the United Kingdom and India. It discussed regional developments and called on Iran to halt ongoing attacks, comply with international law, and adhere to UN resolutions. GCC foreign ministers stressed the need to intensify efforts to address the Strait of Hormuz closure's impact on energy and trade.
Bahrain was represented by Ambassador Shaikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Khalifa and other officials at the meeting, demonstrating commitment to advancing joint Gulf action amid political and security challenges.