GCC condemns Iran's attack on Qatar, reaffirms regional solidarity

The Ministerial Council of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has denounced the Iranian missile attacks on the Al Udeid air base in Qatar, describing it as a "blatant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty", during an "extraordinary meeting" in Doha.

It was attended by foreign ministers of the GCC member states, including Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, as well as Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, GCC Secretary-General.

It took place amid heightened regional tensions and served as a platform for the Gulf states to demonstrate their unified stance, stating that the strikes violated Qatar’s airspace, international law and the United Nations Charter.

Discussions at the Council meeting included the latest regional and international developments, particularly the need to strengthen joint Gulf action and uphold regional security through peaceful means. 

The Council also condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza, denouncing the killing of civilians, the expansion of military operations across the Strip, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid. It called for the immediate resumption of negotiations to achieve a lasting ceasefire and ensure urgent aid delivery to affected civilians.

The Council also welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump between Iran and Israel. It acknowledged Qatar’s mediatory role in supporting ceasefire efforts and stressed the urgency of seizing this opportunity for de-escalation. The Council praised Oman’s facilitation of US-Iran negotiations on nuclear issues and encouraged continued international mediation.

Moreover, the Council reiterated the importance of the GCC’s Joint Security Vision, unveiled in March 2024, which emphasises diplomacy and dialogue as central pillars for overcoming conflict. 

Finally, the Council highlighted the necessity of securing regional airspace, maritime routes and energy infrastructure, while voicing concern over attacks on commercial vessels and threats to international trade. It reaffirmed the GCC states’ commitment to safeguarding energy markets and promoting regional and global stability.