GCC Ministerial Council Urges Restraint Amid Middle East Military Escalation And Humanitarian Crisis

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) held its 45th extraordinary meeting in Doha, Qatar, amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The meeting was led by Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. Key figures from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and the GCC Secretary General attended to discuss regional security concerns.

The Council addressed escalating tensions in Lebanon and Palestine, condemning violations in these areas. It highlighted threats to Al Aqsa Mosque and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. The Council warned that these issues could extend beyond the region, threatening global peace and security. They stressed the importance of safeguarding regional stability.

The GCC called for restraint among all parties involved in these conflicts. It urged them to halt violence and engage in dialogue. The international community was also urged to uphold its responsibilities to maintain peace and implement relevant resolutions. The Council emphasized the need for a diplomatic approach to prevent further escalation.

In Lebanon, the GCC reaffirmed its support for the Lebanese people during this challenging period. It called for increased international efforts to provide urgent humanitarian aid to alleviate civilian suffering. The Council also stressed avoiding involvement in regional conflicts and preventing their expansion.

The Council condemned Israeli actions against Gaza and the West Bank, calling for an immediate ceasefire. It demanded lifting the blockade on Gaza and releasing hostages. The importance of opening crossings unconditionally to deliver humanitarian aid was underscored. These actions should comply with international law.

The GCC reiterated its backing for ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza. It praised its strategic partners' roles, especially the United States, in reducing tensions and ensuring regional security. The Council called on the UN Security Council to enforce resolutions demanding a ceasefire and humanitarian aid distribution.

International Cooperation Efforts

The Ministerial Council welcomed statements from recent meetings involving Arab League members and other nations addressing Israeli military actions against Palestine and Lebanon. They supported initiatives like "The Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-state Solution" aimed at establishing a Palestinian state as per UN resolutions.

Additionally, they acknowledged support provided by member states to UNRWA amidst critical humanitarian conditions affecting Palestinians. The Council also praised recent UN General Assembly decisions regarding Palestine's eligibility for full membership.

Commitment to Peace Initiatives

The GCC reaffirmed its commitment to ending Israeli occupation since June 1967 and establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. They urged countries worldwide to recognize Palestine's sovereignty over occupied territories according to international legitimacy resolutions.

The meeting concluded with a call for de-escalation across the region due to potential threats posed by ongoing conflicts on both regional stability and global peace efforts.

With inputs from SPA