EU and Gulf States Condemn Iranian Attacks

EU and Gulf state foreign ministers condemned the "unjustifiable" Iranian attacks in a teleconference.

In a joint statement, they expressed the European Union's solidarity with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.

The ministers reiterated their commitment to regional stability, calling for the protection of civilians and respect for international law. They also called on Iran to curb its nuclear program and stop destabilizing actions.

The damage from Iranian attacks on civilian infrastructure of GCC member states, including oil installations and residential areas, was discussed.

The ministers stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis, while reaffirming the right of GCC countries to defend themselves against attacks, in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter.

They agreed on joint diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to stop destabilizing activities.

The importance of protecting airspace, sea lanes and freedom of navigation, as well as the stability of global energy markets, was reaffirmed.

Finally, the importance of the EU's ASPIDES and ATALANTA operations to protect critical waterways was recognized.