Jassim Al-Budaiwi, the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), asserted that Gulf states must be a fundamental part of any discussions or agreements related to resolving the ongoing crisis between Iran on one side and the United States and Israel on the other. Al-Budaiwi warned that "any frameworks, initiatives, or regional arrangements aimed at altering the map of the Middle East after this crisis are categorically rejected."
In a briefing to a number of Arab and foreign ambassadors in Riyadh, Al-Budaiwi pointed out that the primary option for the GCC states is a diplomatic and political solution, which he deemed "the most rational and successful option," adding that Gulf states "are considering all options" in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.
Details of the Event
The Secretary-General called on partners and friends around the world to send a unified international message to Iran, demanding an immediate and unconditional cessation of attacks on GCC countries. He emphasized that the goal of the Gulf states "has never been to destroy or weaken Iran, but rather to establish a normal relationship based on mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and non-aggression."
Al-Budaiwi also noted that "this aggression cannot be addressed with the logic of Middle Eastern complexities," stressing that what is happening constitutes "a blatant violation of international law and a systematic targeting of countries that are not parties to any conflict." He urged international partners to understand the realities "correctly."
Background & Context
For decades, the Gulf Cooperation Council has been a pillar of regional and international stability, a reliable source of energy, and a responsible partner in the global economy. Al-Budaiwi affirmed that the GCC states "will not accept being targets of aggression, or arenas for settling regional scores, or having the blood of their citizens shed without deterrence."
He pointed out that Iranian attacks, after 25 days, have exceeded 5,000 ballistic missiles and drones targeting GCC countries, noting that 85% of the total missiles launched during the conflict were directed towards the Gulf states. He praised the Gulf air defense systems for their "high professionalism" in responding to these attacks, emphasizing that this "does not diminish the scale of the aggression nor absolve Iran of its full responsibility."
Impact & Consequences
In a related context, Al-Budaiwi confirmed that Iranian behavior has "exceeded all limits" by closing the Strait of Hormuz, preventing the passage of commercial ships and oil tankers, and imposing transit fees, in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. He warned that disrupting navigation does not only affect Gulf states but extends to the global economy, especially as some countries suffer from shortages in oil and gas supplies.
He stressed that "maritime corridors are subject to international agreements, and no party can disrupt them or impose conditions on passage." He explained that while the closure of the Strait of Hormuz may initially seem to have limited effects through rising energy prices, the "cumulative consequences on the global economy, energy markets, marine insurance, and civil aviation will be catastrophic."
Regional Significance
Al-Budaiwi revealed that Gulf states were surprised by the American-Israeli strikes on Iran, affirming that they clearly announced their non-participation in any military action and that they would not allow their territories to be used for operations against Iran, informing Tehran of this stance. Nevertheless, this position did not prevent Iran from attacking GCC countries.
He confirmed that the GCC states have exercised the utmost restraint, opting not to respond to avoid escalating the conflict, "in hopes that Iran would return to its senses and cease these attacks." He emphasized the strategic importance of Gulf states in the global economy, noting that they produce approximately 16 million barrels of crude oil daily and account for 27% of global oil exports.
In conclusion, Al-Budaiwi affirmed that any disruption in the Gulf directly impacts energy security and international economic stability, making it essential for Gulf states to be a key partner in any discussions related to regional security.