GCC commends stances of Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and UK regarding Iran's attacks

CAIRO – 13 March 2026: The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jassem Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, affirmed that joint ministerial meetings held on Friday with Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and the UK—each conducted separately—achieved positive results in strengthening mutual relations.

Al-Budaiwi praised these nations' unwavering support for the GCC member states in the face of recent Iranian attacks. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Secretary-General noted that these meetings took place amidst a dangerous and unprecedented escalation in the region, triggered by Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting GCC countries and Jordan since February 28.

These attacks have targeted civilian facilities and vital infrastructure, resulting in casualties and significant material damage. Al-Budaiwi characterized these actions as flagrant violations of international law and the principles of an international order based on respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He expressed appreciation for the strong solidarity shown by these brotherly and friendly nations and their support for the measures taken by GCC states to defend their sovereignty, protect regional stability, and safeguard the well-being of their citizens and residents.

He emphasized that the danger of these attacks extends beyond the GCC, threatening international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world's most strategic waterways for global energy supplies.

He warned that targeting commercial vessels and maritime routes constitutes a direct threat to the freedom of navigation and exposes global trade to grave risks, with potential negative repercussions for the global economy.

The Secretary-General noted that the joint meetings welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), which was approved by 136 countries.

The resolution condemns in the strongest terms the Iranian attacks on the territories of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, describing them as serious threats to international peace and security. He called on Iran to comply with the resolution by immediately ceasing all hostilities.

During the sessions, Al-Budaiwi also addressed the Palestinian issue, emphasizing that it remains a central shared priority. He concluded by commending the tireless efforts exerted by the GCC states and Egypt to bring an end to the war in the Gaza Strip.