Meeting of the UN Security Council on cooperation with regional organizations. The UN Security Council discussed issues of cooperation with the Gulf countries UN
The UN Security Council met today to discuss the UN’s partnership with one of the regional alliances, the Gulf Cooperation Council. Considering the situation in the Middle East, the meeting, which was opened by the Foreign Minister of Bahrain, who chairs the Security Council in April, was primarily about security.
The threat to the region
“The Middle East is on a dangerous brink,” said Khaled Khiari, UN Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East and Asia-Pacific in his speech.
He recalled that the UN chief condemned the military strikes on Iran, and Iranian attacks on the Gulf countries and Jordan. “These actions are clear violations of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the affected countries,” he emphasized.
The UN representative also referred to the demand set out in resolution 2817 (2026) for the immediate cessation of all Iranian attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan. “The Council condemned these attacks and they must stop immediately,” he said, adding that the Gulf Cooperation Council plays a “key role” in reducing tensions in the region.
60~p>Attacks on energy and civilian infrastructure are “particularly concerning,” the Assistant Secretary-General continued, while disruption of shipping in the Persian Gulf Gulf and surrounding waters has led to global economic consequences.
“All parties must respect freedom of navigation, which is the cornerstone of international maritime law,” he said, recalling that the Secretary-General had appointed Jean Arnault as his personal envoy for issues related to the Middle East crisis and its consequences. “The United Nations remains committed to deepening its partnership with the Gulf countries,” he added.
“Gulf countries seek peace”
“Since February 28, the Gulf states have been subjected to Iranian attacks using ballistic missiles and military drones,” said Jassim Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
He noted that the strikes are aimed at important civilian infrastructure, including airports, oil facilities, residential and commercial areas, fuel depots, service facilities and diplomatic missions. These attacks, according to the speaker, have resulted in civilian and military casualties, significant property damage and threaten the safety of local residents.
He also noted that Council member countries strongly condemn “Iranian attacks, which constitute a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of States,” as well as the principle of good neighborly relations, international law and the Charter UN.
“The Gulf states are not seeking war. They strive for the peace, security and stability that all peoples deserve,” he stressed, adding that the best way to overcome the crisis is through dialogue and diplomacy.