RIYADH: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Thursday called for a diplomatic solution to end Iranian attacks on Gulf states, urging immediate de-escalation while insisting on Gulf countries’ inclusion in any negotiations between the United States and Iran.
“We emphasise the necessity of involving the GCC countries in any talks or agreements to resolve this crisis, in a way that contributes to strengthening their security and stability,” GCC Secretary-General Jasem AlBudaiwi said in a televised address.
Call for diplomacy
AlBudaiwi said GCC states, while retaining the right to self-defence, preferred a political resolution to the crisis.
“Our main message to our partners in the world is to send a unified international message to Iran to stop immediately and unconditionally its attacks against GCC countries,” he said.
He added that Gulf countries do not seek confrontation with Tehran but aim to establish “a good relationship” based on stability and cooperation.
Iranian actions in Strait of Hormuz
AlBudaiwi warned that Iranian actions, including demands for payments from vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, posed serious risks to global trade and energy security.
He described attacks on energy facilities in GCC countries as “brutal aggression” affecting not only the region but also the global economy.
“The situation is an international responsibility,” he said, cautioning that disruptions such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could have long-term implications for global economic growth.
He stressed the need to protect oil supply chains and maritime routes, warning that current threats could escalate if left unchecked.
Right to defend
Reiterating the Gulf countries’ stance, AlBudaiwi said GCC countries had acted with “restraint and rationality” despite coming under attack.
He described Iranian actions as violations of the GCC’s legal framework and international norms, affirming that member states have the right to defend themselves.
“The security of the GCC countries is one, and any aggression against any country is aggression against the whole GCC,” he said, referring to the bloc’s collective defence agreement.
Call for international action
AlBudaiwi urged the international community to take decisive steps to safeguard critical maritime routes.
“The world must assume its responsibility and act firmly against any party endangering naval routes,” he said.
He added that the GCC seeks “normal relations based on mutual respect” with Iran, including non-interference in domestic affairs and expanded economic cooperation.
However, the GCC chief warned that continued escalation could have consequences far beyond the Gulf region.
