The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) foreign ministers recently convened to address pressing regional security challenges. They unanimously called for the designation of the Houthi group as a terrorist organization, emphasizing the need to halt the support enabling the acquisition of advanced weaponry, including missiles and drones.
Condemnation of Houthi Aggression
At their 168th Ministerial Council meeting held in Bahrain, the ministers voiced strong opposition to ongoing Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia. These incidents, including assaults on essential infrastructures and civilian sites like airports and religious landmarks, have led to numerous civilian casualties. The council expressed deep condolences to the families affected by these attacks and wished for a swift recovery for the injured. Such aggression threatens not merely Saudi Arabia but also the overall stability of the Gulf region.
Gulf States’ Solidarity and Security Measures
The GCC ministers reaffirmed their unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia and pledged full support for any measures taken to protect the Kingdom’s sovereignty and security. They reiterated that any aggression directed at one Gulf state is viewed as an attack on all member nations, in line with the Joint Defense Agreement. This principle underscores their right to both individual and collective self-defense, as outlined by Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
The council also welcomed a recent presidential statement from the UN Security Council that condemned Houthi attacks, specifically mentioning assaults on Aramco facilities. This acknowledgment reinforces the international community’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s right to self-defense in the face of these incursions.
Call for Accountability from Iran
The GCC foreign ministers placed full accountability on Iran for its actions that undermine the security of Gulf nations and Jordan. They demanded that Tehran not only be held responsible for these aggressions but also required to make reparations for the damages incurred. In their statement, they invoked the Human Rights Council’s Resolution 61/1 of 2026, highlighting the importance of holding aggressors accountable for their actions.
Additionally, the ministers underscored the necessity of protecting critical maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Any attempts to close these waterways or disrupt navigation pose significant risks and must be actively countered. They firmly rejected any unlawful fees or restrictions on shipping transit, demanding that navigation conditions in these vital areas return to their status prior to February 28.
Support for Political Solutions in Yemen
In addition to addressing security threats, the GCC foreign ministers called for stringent enforcement of the arms embargo against the Houthi group and expressed their commitment to achieving a political solution to the ongoing crisis in Yemen. They emphasized that any resolution must align with the established three references of diplomacy and negotiation.
Through these actions and declarations, the Gulf Cooperation Council is not only reinforcing its commitment to regional stability but also calling for collaborative efforts to address the myriad challenges posed by extremist groups and external aggressions. Their concerted approach aims to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all member states, safeguarding both their sovereignty and the rights of their citizens.