GCC, UK Urge Joint Action Against Threats to Key Maritime Routes

(MENAFN) On Sunday, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) together with the United Kingdom urged coordinated efforts to address any potential Iranian dangers that could interfere with global maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz or jeopardize shipping safety in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

This announcement came through a joint communiqué released after a meeting held on Friday between the foreign ministers of GCC member states and British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. The discussions focused on recent Iranian assaults directed at Gulf nations and the broader implications for regional security.

In the statement, officials emphasized the importance of safeguarding regional airspace and maintaining the free movement of vessels. They highlighted the necessity of preventing any actions that might hinder international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz or compromise maritime safety in the Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

The communiqué also pointed out that security and stability in the Gulf region are “fundamental pillars of global economic stability” and remain strongly connected to the safety of the United Kingdom as well as the broader international community.

Additionally, the ministers confirmed that GCC member states are entitled to adopt all essential steps—either independently or collectively—to protect their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and internal stability from Iranian aggression.

At the same time, the participants reaffirmed their strong dedication to diplomatic engagement and dialogue as the preferred path for resolving the ongoing crisis. They also commended Oman for its constructive mediation efforts between Iran and the United States and stressed the importance of restoring peace, stability, and security across the region.

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