Gulf States Affirm Right to Self-Defence Against Iranian Aggression
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministerial Committee has expressed strong rejection of Iranian attacks targeting GCC member states and Jordan, affirming that regional nations possess full legal rights to respond to such actions.
The meeting specifically reviewed the extensive damage caused by the attacks, which were characterised as treacherous acts. The Iranian strikes reportedly targeted civilian facilities, public service locations and residential areas, causing significant material losses and threatening civilian lives.
In its official statement, the Ministerial Council described the actions as serious violations of state sovereignty, principles of good neighbourly relations and the United Nations Charter. The council emphasised that targeting civilians and civilian objects constitutes grave violations of international humanitarian law.
Full solidarity amongst member states emerged as a key point during the meeting. The GCC affirmed a unified position against threats, operating on the principle that the security of each member state is an indivisible unity. An attack on one member state is considered a direct attack on all other members.
Regarding international legal steps, the Council cited self-defence provisions established by international law. “GCC states maintain their legal right to respond based on Article 51 of the UN Charter, which guarantees the right to self-defence, individually or collectively, in the event of aggression, and to take all measures necessary to protect their sovereignty, security and stability,” the statement read.
The council also expressed high appreciation for the armed forces of member states, which demonstrated swift responses to aerial threats. Security forces successfully intercepted missile and drone attacks with professional efficiency, thereby minimising damage to critical infrastructure.
Given the escalating situation, meeting participants agreed that military options remain available if necessary. “In light of Iran’s unjustifiable aggression against these GCC states, member states will take all measures necessary to defend their security and stability and to protect their territory, citizens and residents, including options to respond to such aggression,” the statement emphasised.
As a diplomatic step, the GCC urged the international community to join in condemning Tehran’s actions. The UN Security Council was called upon to promptly assume responsibility by taking firm stances to prevent further violations in the future.