Jeddah: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders convened in Jeddah for a pivotal consultative summit, with His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani affirming the unified stance of the GCC states in addressing regional challenges. The summit underscored the importance of enhanced coordination and consultation among member states to ensure regional security, peace, and prosperity.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al-Watan newspaper highlighted the significant role of the GCC in consolidating regional stability over the past decades, fulfilling the aspirations of its citizens, and achieving strategic goals. The newspaper emphasized the importance of the summit in light of recent regional developments, particularly the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has adversely affected the region's countries. It stressed the need to ensure freedom of navigation and prevent the exploitation of sea lanes as a pressure tactic, given the negative effects on energy and food supplies and international peace and security.
Al-Arab newspaper pointed out the GCC summit's significance amidst regional and international challenges, including the conflict between the United States and Iran, which directly impacts energy security and supply chains. The newspaper echoed the call for coordinated efforts among GCC states to support regional stability and emphasized Qatar's role in seeking a resolution to the conflict while supporting Pakistan's mediation efforts.
The Peninsula noted the summit's backdrop of unprecedented military escalation in the region, with GCC leaders condemning Iran's attacks against member states and Jordan. The leaders reiterated their right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter and rejected Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, stressing the need to restore security and navigation freedom to pre-crisis conditions.
Throughout the regional crisis, GCC leaders have demonstrated wisdom by prioritizing long-term peace and prosperity for the region. With unity and coordination, the GCC is poised to emerge stronger and continue its journey toward development and prosperity.