GCC Ministers Convene in Manama, Affirm Saudi Right to Self-Defense

Foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) convened in the Bahraini capital of Manama for their 168th Ministerial Council meeting to address pressing regional developments and bolster mutual security cooperation.

The high-level talks focused heavily on recent regional security challenges and cross-border threats impacting civilian and strategic infrastructure. The council affirmed full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, underscoring its legitimate right to protect its territorial integrity and safeguard civilian safety against hostile escalation.

Discussions during the ministerial sessions emphasized the importance of unified Gulf positions in confronting regional risks and advancing maritime and airspace stability. The ministers also underscored the necessity of robust international action to counter destabilizing activities, including broader multilateral classifications against groups endangering Middle Eastern trade and civil infrastructure.

On the sidelines of the summit, several bilateral discussions were held to coordinate diplomatic positions ahead of wider international forums, highlighting continued coordination between member states to preserve Gulf economic momentum and long-term security.