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Iranian attacks on Gulf states: 9 key takeaways from GCC meeting
The Gulf bloc convened an extraordinary session after missile and drone strikes targeted member states, outlining a unified stance on security, self-defence and diplomacy
- PUBLISHED: Mon 2 Mar 2026, 10:59 AM
Despite repeated diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation, and explicit assurances that their territories would not be used to launch attacks, Iran targeted Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, striking civilian and residential facilities.
At its extraordinary Ministerial Council meeting on Sunday, the Gulf bloc condemned the Iranian missile and drone attacks against the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, describing them as “treacherous”.
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Here are the key outcomes and positions outlined by the council:
1. Civilian damage reviewed
The Council reviewed what it described as extensive material damage resulting from missile and drone attacks. It said civilian facilities, service sites and residential areas were targeted, threatening the safety of citizens and residents and spreading fear among the population.
2. Strong condemnation
Ministers condemned in the strongest terms the attacks against GCC member states and Jordan. They described the strikes as unjustified and characterised them as serious violations of sovereignty, the principles of good neighbourliness and international law, including the UN Charter.
3. 'An attack on one is an attack on all'
The Council reaffirmed full solidarity among member states, stressing that the security of GCC countries is indivisible. It underscored that any attack against one member state constitutes a direct attack against all, in line with the GCC Charter and the Joint Defence Agreement.
4. Right to self-defence
The ministers affirmed that GCC countries reserve their legal right to respond in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which guarantees the right of individual and collective self-defence in the event of aggression.
5. Armed forces commended
The Council praised the efficiency, professionalism and high readiness of the armed forces and air defence systems across member states. It said successful interceptions of missiles and drones helped neutralise threats and protect lives, facilities and vital assets.
6. Necessary measures authorised
In light of what it described as unjustified aggression, the Council said member states would take all necessary measures to defend their security, stability and sovereignty, including the option of responding to the attacks.
7. Immediate halt urged
The Council underscored the need for an immediate cessation of military operations to restore security, peace and stability across the region.
8. UN and global action sought
Ministers called on the international community to condemn the attacks and urged the United Nations Security Council to assume its responsibilities by taking a firm and immediate stance to prevent further violations and safeguard regional and international peace.
9. Dialogue remains key
Despite the escalation, the Council reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path to resolving the crisis. It noted that GCC states have consistently advocated negotiations with Iran and warned that further escalation could have dangerous and far-reaching consequences for regional and global stability.
As Associate Editor, Sahim Salim helps tell the UAE story like no one else does — and leads a team of reporters that asks the questions to get news and headlines that matter.
