New york: At the request of the Kingdom of Bahrain, acting on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened a meeting in New York to discuss recent Iranian attacks targeting GCC countries. The meeting was held at the United Nations Headquarters following Bahrain's request in its capacity as President of the 46th Session of the GCC.
According to Bahrain News Agency, during the meeting, Ambassador Jamal Fares Al Ruwaie, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations, expressed the Kingdom's appreciation for the swift response of the OIC General Secretariat in issuing a statement strongly condemning the Iranian attacks. He also thanked OIC member states that issued statements condemning the attacks and expressing solidarity with the GCC countries.
Ambassador Al Ruwaie further commended the Republic of Trkiye for its efforts during its presidency of the OIC, noting that Trkiye had also been affected by Iranian attacks, which were likewise condemned by the OIC General Secretariat.
In his remarks, the Permanent Representative emphasised that the GCC states have consistently worked to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the international community, with the aim of resolving differences through peaceful means and preventing further escalation in the region. Despite these efforts, he stated that the GCC countries have been subjected to attacks that are unjustified and in violation of Article 2(4) of the United Nations Charter.
He also noted that Iran's actions contradict its stated commitments. While Iran had communicated messages to GCC leaders expressing respect for the sovereignty of regional states, it simultaneously launched attacks targeting civilian facilities, residential areas, and infrastructure.
During the meeting, the permanent representatives of the GCC member states addressed the gathering, highlighting that the attacks constitute violations of the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter, international law, international humanitarian law, and relevant international agreements. They provided details regarding the missiles and drones launched by Iran toward GCC countries and stressed that many of the targets were civilian sites, contrary to Iran's claims that the strikes were directed at military objectives. According to the representatives, these actions represent a clear breach of international humanitarian law.
They also warned that any attempt to close the Strait of Hormuz would represent a serious escalation with significant consequences for regional stability and global economic security.
Several OIC member states participating in the meeting expressed their solidarity with the GCC countries and condemned the Iranian attacks.