GCC and EU Urge Iran to Cease Hostilities

Mar 5, 2026

84 min

Mar 5, 2026 17:32

Gulf-European statement calls on Iran to immediately halt its attacks

## Joint Statement Condemns Iranian Aggression

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) have issued a joint statement condemning recent Iranian attacks on GCC states. The foreign ministers from both regions met via videoconference in Brussels to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East. They called for an immediate cessation of Iranian hostilities, emphasizing the threat these pose to regional and global security.

## Right to Self-Defense

The ministers highlighted the GCC states' right to defend themselves, as outlined in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. They affirmed their commitment to taking necessary measures to protect their territories and citizens, while urging the United Nations Security Council to uphold international peace and security.

## Diplomatic Efforts and Strategic Partnership

The meeting underscored the importance of diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to halt the production of ballistic missiles and drones. The ministers reiterated the strategic partnership between the EU and GCC, established in 1988, and their shared commitment to regional stability and international law.

## Protecting Vital Routes and Energy Security

The statement also stressed the need to safeguard regional airspace and maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, to ensure the stability of global energy markets. The EU's naval operations "Aspides" and "Atalanta" were acknowledged for their role in protecting these vital waterways.

## Continued Cooperation

The EU expressed gratitude to the GCC for their support to EU citizens in the region and reaffirmed ongoing cooperation to ensure their safety. The ministers concluded by emphasizing the interconnectedness of Gulf and European security and the importance of continued dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis.

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