Manama: Foreign Ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) convened an extraordinary virtual meeting to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly focusing on Iranian attacks against GCC states.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting was led by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain's Minister of Foreign Affairs and current President of the GCC Ministerial Council, alongside Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The session included participation from GCC and EU foreign ministers.
The joint statement issued by the ministers strongly condemned the Iranian attacks on GCC nations, describing them as unjustifiable actions that threaten both regional and global security. The ministers called for an immediate cessation of these attacks and reaffirmed the EU's solidarity with the GCC countries.
The strategic partnership between the EU and the GCC, established under the 1988 Cooperation Agreement and reinforced at the 2024 Brussels Summit, was emphasized. The ministers reiterated their commitment to regional stability and the protection of civilians, urging full respect for international law and the United Nations Charter.
The discussions highlighted the extensive damage caused by Iran's indiscriminate attacks on civilian infrastructure within GCC member states, including oil and service facilities, and residential areas. These attacks resulted in material damage and endangered the safety of civilians.
The ministers also addressed diplomatic efforts prior to the attacks, emphasizing the GCC's commitment to ensuring their territories were not used as launch points for attacks against Iran. They reaffirmed their dedication to dialogue and diplomacy, praising Oman for its constructive role in restoring regional stability.
The meeting concluded with an agreement on joint diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and curb ballistic missile proliferation. The ministers stressed the importance of safeguarding regional airspace, maritime routes, and ensuring the stability of global energy markets. They acknowledged the significance of EU maritime operations in protecting critical waterways and reducing supply chain disruptions.
Additionally, the European Union expressed gratitude to the GCC states for their hospitality towards EU nationals, ensuring their safe departure in close cooperation with GCC member states.