Brussels: The Foreign Ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states and the European Union convened an emergency meeting today via videoconference to address the Iranian attacks targeting GCC countries and the evolving situation in the Middle East. The GCC delegation was led by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and current chair of the Ministerial Council of the GCC.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the European side was chaired by Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission. Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC, also participated in the meeting.
The Foreign Ministers expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown by the European Union and international partners with GCC countries in resisting the Iranian attacks. The Minister remarked that this support highlights the robust partnership between the GCC and the EU and signifies the international community’s acknowledgment of the GCC’s essential role in maintaining regional stability and supporting the global economy.
The meeting was called amid heightened tensions in the region, as GCC countries continue to endure attacks from Iran. These attacks have targeted civilian infrastructure, including homes, hotels, shopping centers, ports, airports, and energy facilities, using over a thousand drones and numerous ballistic missiles. The assaults have resulted in casualties, injuries, and substantial material damage. The Minister lauded the GCC armed forces for their effective and prepared response to these attacks.
The Minister declared that the attacks against civilian properties violate international law and condemned any justifications for the assaults. He emphasized that the attacks aim to terrorize civilians and propagate chaos, aligning with Iran’s historical pattern of exporting terrorism regionally and globally.
Furthermore, the Minister urged the international community to reject any attempt by Iran to disrupt international navigation or close the Strait of Hormuz, warning of severe implications for global energy security and international trade. He stressed that it is imperative for Iran to cease its attacks and act as a responsible regional player committed to international law and United Nations Charter obligations.
The Minister reiterated that GCC countries have the right to defend themselves against aggression and to take necessary measures to secure their territories and citizens. The GCC and the European Union maintain a mutual commitment to peace and security in the region and adherence to international law principles. The GCC expects the EU to take a firm stance against the Iranian aggression and demonstrate solidarity with the affected states.
A joint statement issued after the meeting reaffirmed the strategic partnership between the EU and the GCC and condemned the Iranian attacks as threats to regional and global security. The European Union reiterated its support for the GCC countries, and the Ministers called for the protection of civilians and adherence to international law.
The Ministers discussed the extensive damage caused by the recent Iranian attacks and highlighted the diplomatic efforts made by the EU, GCC, and Oman to de-escalate the situation. They emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis and restore regional stability.
The joint statement also underscored the importance of safeguarding regional air space, maritime routes, and the security of supply chains, especially in the Strait of Hormuz. The EU’s maritime defensive operations, ASPIDES and ATALANTA, were recognized for their role in protecting critical waterways.
Lastly, the European Union expressed gratitude to the GCC member states for their hospitality and assistance to EU nationals and pledged continued cooperation to ensure their safe departure.