GCC chief: Gulf security indivisible, calls for stronger regional framework

Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohammed Albudaiwi has emphasized that the security of GCC states is indivisible, and that establishing a stable and sustainable regional security framework requires adherence to international law, respect for state sovereignty, strengthening joint defense, prioritizing diplomatic solutions, safeguarding maritime routes and energy supplies, as well as promoting development and international partnerships.

According to an official GCC statement, Albudaiwi made these remarks during his participation today in the third plenary session, titled "Pillars of Regional Security," as part of the 22nd Regional Security Summit "Manama Dialogue 2026," held in the Bahraini capital, Manama.

Albudaiwi explained that developments in the region since February 28 have posed serious challenges to regional security, following Iranian attacks targeting GCC countries and their vital civilian infrastructure, despite the Council's non-involvement in the conflict and its diplomatic efforts to contain escalation. He noted that the repercussions have extended to the global economy due to disruptions in navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting energy prices, shipping and insurance costs, and supply chains.

He condemned the terrorist attacks launched by Houthi militias against Saudi Arabia since last July, which have reached as far as Makkah and Madinah, stressing that these acts violate the sanctity of Islamic holy sites and represent a dangerous escalation threatening the region's security and stability.

The Secretary-General outlined five main pillars for building sustainable regional security. The first is respect for international law and state sovereignty, commitment to good neighborly relations, non-interference in internal affairs, and peaceful dispute resolution. He referenced UN Security Council Resolution 2817, adopted on March 11, 2026, which was submitted by Bahrain on behalf of the GCC and Jordan and co-sponsored by 136 countries, underscoring the importance of implementing the resolution and its provisions.

He said the second pillar is collective defense and Gulf military integration, praising the readiness of GCC armed forces to counter attacks. He also cited directives from GCC leaders at their 19th consultative meeting in Jeddah last April to intensify military integration and expedite the completion of an early warning system against ballistic missiles.

Albudaiwi identified diplomacy and peaceful dispute resolution as the third pillar, highlighting the GCC's international partnerships with the United States, Europe, China, India, and Asian countries, as well as communication channels with neighboring states, including Iran. He stressed that successful diplomatic efforts require mutual will and responsible engagement from all parties.

Regarding the fourth pillar, he emphasized that maritime security and energy supply are shared international responsibilities, warning that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab Al-Mandab threaten global economic interests. He called on the international community to halt attacks, hold perpetrators accountable, and restore normal maritime traffic. He added that GCC states are working to enhance energy supply resilience through oil and gas pipeline projects, studying the creation of strategic reserves, and accelerating electricity, water, and rail interconnection projects.

He said the fifth pillar is achieving stability through development and international partnerships, noting that the GCC's combined economy is valued at around $2.4 trillion, which strengthens its ability to withstand crises and support regional and international stability.

The GCC Secretary-General reaffirmed the Council's continued support for Yemen's legitimate government and efforts to reach a comprehensive political solution based on agreed references, as well as support for the security, stability, and sovereignty of Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. He stressed that lasting peace in the region depends on achieving a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue based on the two-state solution, alongside enhancing water and food security and addressing climate challenges.

Albudaiwi concluded by stressing that regional security cannot be based solely on balances of power, but requires international rules respected by all parties and a security framework shaped by regional states. He reiterated the GCC's readiness to contribute to building such a framework in line with the Council's regional security vision launched in 2024.

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