Gulf States Vow Response to Iranian Aggression
Countries in the Gulf region have pledged to defend themselves against attacks from Iran, including the possibility of “responding to aggression” if necessary. The commitment came during an emergency meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), convened to formulate a unified response to escalating tensions.
Foreign ministers from the six GCC member states – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – all of which have been targeted by Iranian attacks, “examined the extensive damage resulting from the treacherous Iranian attacks” and discussed measures to restore stability in the region. The recent escalation raises concerns about wider regional instability and potential disruptions to global energy markets.
According to a statement released following the meeting, Gulf countries “will take all necessary measures to defend their security and stability and to protect their territories, citizens and residents, including the possibility of responding to aggression.”
The Gulf states are calling for the “immediate cessation of attacks,” adding that the stability of the “Gulf region is not only a regional concern, but a fundamental pillar of global economic stability.” The GCC was founded in 1981 and currently includes six monarchies, as detailed on the Council’s Wikipedia page.
The announcement follows a series of retaliatory strikes after initial attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran, as reported by Internazionale. Italy has also established a “Gulf Task Force” to assist citizens in the region, according to a statement from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The development underscores growing regional tensions and the potential for further escalation.
