GCC, UK Foreign Ministers condemn Iran's aggression

The foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the United Kingdom have held an extraordinary meeting to discuss escalating tensions in the Middle East and Iran’s aggression against GCC states and Jordan.

The meeting was chaired by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, with the UK represented by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper.

GCC foreign ministers and the bloc’s Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi also took part.

Ministers welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2817, which strongly condemns Iran’s attacks on the territories of GCC countries and Jordan, including strikes on civilian areas and infrastructure that caused casualties and damage.

They noted the resolution received strong international backing, with 136 UN member states supporting it, and reiterated calls for Iran to immediately cease attacks and provocations in the region.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability, respect for international law and the protection of civilians, while stressing that the countries targeted have the right to defend themselves under the UN Charter.

They also agreed to pursue joint diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and halting the development of ballistic missiles, drones and other technologies that threaten regional security.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of safeguarding maritime routes and global energy supplies, including freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb.

Ministers thanked the United Kingdom for its continued support for Gulf security, while the UK expressed appreciation to GCC countries for assisting British nationals in the region.