General Secretariat – Doha

His Excellency Mr Jassem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), participated in a panel discussion titled "Iran Amidst Changes in the Regional Security Environment". The session was held as part of the 23rd Doha Forum today, Saturday, December 6, 2025, in the Qatari capital, Doha.

During his participation, His Excellency Mr Albudaiwi said that security and peace are among the most critical pillars of regional stability, adding: "The GCC seeks to develop constructive relations with its neighbours, particularly the Islamic Republic of Iran, based on firm principles. These include respect for state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, the cessation of support for militias and groups that destabilise the region, and a commitment to the principles of good neighbourliness and dialogue as the primary option for resolving outstanding issues." 

His Excellency also underlined the GCC countries' rejection of the Iranian missile attacks targeting the State of Qatar, asserting that they constitute a blatant violation of international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter.

Furthermore, His Excellency addressed outstanding issues between GCC states and the Islamic Republic of Iran, foremost among them the three occupied United Arab Emirates (UAE) islands. He underscored the GCC's support for the UAE’s sovereignty over its islands and the necessity of resorting to peaceful solutions or the International Court of Justice to bring this file to a close.

In another context, His Excellency Mr Albudaiwi praised the vital role played by Gulf preventive diplomacy. He highlighted the Council’s efforts regarding mediation and dialogue with Iran, including direct meetings with the Iranian side. 

He specifically noted the efforts led by the Sultanate of Oman in facilitating talks between the United States and Iran—efforts that have garnered widespread international appreciation.

"The GCC states believe in the region's ability to overcome challenges through constructive dialogue and reciprocal confidence-building measures, in a manner that achieves regional and international security and stability and preserves the interests of the peoples of the region," His Excellency concluded. ​