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The session was chaired by His Excellency Mr Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait, current President of the Ministerial Council, with the participation of Their Highnesses, Excellencies and Distinguished Ministers:

His Excellency Mr Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar - Minister of State, United Arab Emirates

His Excellency Ambassador Khalid Yousef Al Jalahma - Undersecretary for Political Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Bahrain

His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

His Excellency Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sultanate of Oman

His Excellency Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani - Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, State of Qatar

His Excellency Shaikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah - Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, State of Kuwait

And His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Abdullah Albudaiwi - Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council

The Ministerial Council reviewed developments in joint Gulf action and political developments regionally and internationally, as follows:

Joint Gulf Action:

1. The Ministerial Council reviewed the progress of consultations regarding the implementation of the decision of the Ministerial Council at its 33rd session regarding the proposal of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (may God have mercy on him), to transition from the cooperation phase to the union phase. The Council directed the Ministerial Council to continue its efforts to transition from the cooperation phase to the union phase, and tasked the Ministerial Council and the head of the specialised body with completing the necessary procedures for this purpose and submitting the findings to the Ministerial Council at its next session.

2. The Ministerial Council affirmed its commitment to the strength and cohesion of the Cooperation Council, the unity of its members, and the achievement of greater coordination, integration, and interconnectedness in all fields, in order to fulfill the aspirations of the citizens of the GCC states. The Council emphasised the unity of its member states in confronting any threat to any of the GCC states. 

3. The Ministerial Council reviewed the progress of economic integration among the GCC countries, reviewed the recommendations and reports of the relevant ministerial committees, and approved the tasks and responsibilities of the high-level coordination committee, composed of the deputy heads of sovereign funds or their equivalents in the GCC countries. The Ministerial Council also noted the approval by the Committee of Their Excellencies and Highnesses, the Ministers Responsible for Housing Affairs, of an economic framework for partnership with private institutions to encourage investment in the real estate sector in the GCC countries.

The situation in Gaza:

4. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the brotherly Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, its commitment to alleviating their suffering, ending the blockade imposed on the Strip, opening all crossings for the entry of humanitarian and relief aid and basic needs, and ensuring their continued access to the residents of the Gaza Strip. It also emphasised the need to provide international protection for the Palestinian people, refrain from targeting them, and comply with and adhere to international law, international humanitarian law, and relevant Security Council resolutions without exception. 

5. The Ministerial Council condemned the Israeli occupation authorities' announcement of the establishment of an agency targeting the displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. It affirmed its support for the steadfastness of the Palestinian people on their land, its rejection of any attempts to displace the residents of the Gaza Strip, the necessity of respecting the legitimate rights of the brotherly Palestinian people to establish an independent state on their land, and its warning against any plans aimed at infringing on their inalienable rights.

6. The Ministerial Council affirmed Israel's full responsibility for its ongoing violations and attacks on the Gaza Strip, which have resulted in the killing of tens of thousands of civilians, most of them women and children. It considered these attacks to constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity under international humanitarian law, and rejected any justifications or pretexts for describing the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip as self-defence.

7. The Ministerial Council condemned the resumption of Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip. The Council expressed its rejection of the military escalation carried out by the Israeli occupation in the north and south of the Gaza Strip, and its expansion in the occupation of large parts of the Strip. It stressed the need to resume dialogue to implement the stages of the ceasefire agreement. 

8. The Ministerial Council condemned the practices of the Israeli occupation authorities and their policy of collective punishment against the residents of the Gaza Strip, including the cutting off of electricity to the Strip, calling on the international community to take the necessary measures, within the framework of international law, to respond to the Israeli government's practices.

9. The Ministerial Council condemned the crimes committed by the Israeli occupation forces in the Gaza Strip, in the context of the crime of genocide and ethnic cleansing, including the killing of civilians, torture, field executions, disappearances, forced displacement, and looting. The Council called on the Security Council to form an independent international commission to investigate these crimes and take serious steps to prevent these crimes and hold their perpetrators accountable. 

10. The Ministerial Council condemned the continued violations committed by the Israeli occupation forces against the Palestinian people, and their destruction of residential neighbourhoods, hospitals, schools, universities, mosques, churches, and infrastructure in the Gaza Strip, including the bombing of the Hamad Hospital for Prosthetic Limbs on May 19, 2025, the targeting of the European Hospital in Khan Yunis on May 15, 2025, the bombing of the Baptist Hospital on April 13, 2025, the bombing of Dar Al-Arqam School on April 4, 2025, and the destruction of a warehouse for medical and relief supplies belonging to the Saudi Centre for Culture and Heritage on April 4, 2025. 

11. The Ministerial Council condemned the Israeli occupation forces' targeting of humanitarian and international organisations in the Gaza Strip, including the targeting of a clinic affiliated with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Jabalia camp on April 2, 2025, and the ongoing attacks by Israeli settlers on humanitarian aid convoys. It affirmed the responsibility of the Israeli occupation forces to protect these convoys, in accordance with international humanitarian law, to deliver essential humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and not to obstruct the work of international organizations.

12. The Ministerial Council commended the tireless efforts made by the State of Qatar, in coordination with its mediation partners, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States, to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, release the hostages, and allow the entry of all aid to civilians. The Council stressed the need to adhere to the agreement, halt the Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip, and provide full political and diplomatic support to reach a permanent and comprehensive solution. 

13. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the efforts of the Ministerial Committee, chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which was formed by the extraordinary joint Arab and Islamic Summit to work to stop the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people, and to explain the recovery and reconstruction plan in Gaza. The Council welcomed the results of the Committee’s meeting with the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, which was held in Paris on May 23, 2025, and the statement issued by the Committee meeting held on March 20, 2025, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – Riyadh, and the statement issued by the Committee meeting with the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, held on March 23, 2025, in the Arab Republic of Egypt – Cairo.

14. The Ministerial Council welcomed the joint statement issued on May 19, 2025, by the leaders of the United Kingdom, the French Republic, and Canada, regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank, which called for an end to the war on Gaza and immediate access for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

15. The Ministerial Council called on the Security Council to adopt a binding resolution under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, ensuring compliance by the Israeli occupying forces with a permanent ceasefire, the genocide and forced displacement of the Palestinian people, the entry of humanitarian aid, and the restoration of normal life in the Gaza Strip.

16. The Ministerial Council commended the efforts made by the GCC and Arab countries at the political level to halt the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, the humanitarian and relief aid provided by the GCC countries to the Gaza Strip, and the popular campaigns to provide relief to the Palestinian people and deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged population.

17. The Ministerial Council affirmed Security Council Resolutions 2735, 2712, and 2720 regarding a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the release of hostages and detainees, the return of civilians to their homes, the safe and effective distribution of humanitarian aid on a large scale, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Strip. It emphasised the United Nations General Assembly resolution of December 5, 2024, regarding a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and enabling the civilian population to access basic services and humanitarian aid without hindrance, and the need to comply with international law and international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and reject any attempts to alter the demographic or territorial character of the Strip. It emphasised the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip and the West Bank under the umbrella of the Palestinian Authority. 

18. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the Arab Plan for Early Recovery and Reconstruction of Gaza, adopted by the Extraordinary Arab Summit (Palestine Summit) held on March 4, 2025, in Cairo. The Council emphasised that the future of the Gaza Strip must be within a unified Palestinian state and that the two-state solution must be implemented. The Council welcomed the Summit's decision to hold an international conference for recovery and reconstruction in the Gaza Strip, and urged the international community and all brotherly and friendly countries to actively participate in the donors' conference for reconstruction, scheduled to be held as soon as possible, and to mobilise the necessary resources to implement the plan in cooperation with the Palestinian government and relevant international parties. The Council emphasised the importance of the Palestinian people's steadfastness, strengthening their resilience on their land, and involving them in reconstruction efforts. The Council also emphasised the importance of the Summit's statement regarding the call to establish an international fund to care for Gaza orphans, in cooperation with the United Nations.

The Palestinian Cause:

19. The Ministerial Council affirmed the centrality of the Palestinian issue, the end of the Israeli occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and international legitimacy resolutions. It also affirmed support for the sovereignty of the Palestinian people over all occupied Palestinian territories, and emphasised the need to intensify cooperation with international and regional powers and redouble the efforts of the international community to resolve the conflict in a manner that fulfils all the legitimate rights of the brotherly Palestinian people.

20. The Ministerial Council emphasised the importance of national reconciliation to restore Palestinian national unity and bring about unity to achieve the interests of the Palestinian people, appreciating the efforts made by Arab countries in this regard. 

21. The Ministerial Council called on the international community to intervene to stop the targeting of the Palestinian presence in the city of Jerusalem, the expulsion of Palestinians from their homes, attempts to change its legal and historical character, its demographic composition, and the arrangements related to Islamic holy sites, and attempts to impose Israeli sovereignty over it in clear violation of international law, international resolutions, and existing agreements concluded in this regard. The Council rejected these unilateral measures, commending the efforts of the GCC countries, the Al Quds Committee, chaired by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, King of the Kingdom of Morocco, the efforts of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the State of Palestine, the Arab League, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and all Arab and friendly countries and international organisations in this regard. 

22. The Ministerial Council welcomed the outcomes of the 34th Arab Summit, held in the Republic of Iraq on May 17, 2025. The Council reiterated its emphasis on the importance of the initiatives announced by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, at the 33rd Arab Summit, held in the Kingdom of Bahrain, calling for an international peace conference in the Middle East to establish a national, independent, secure, and sovereign Palestinian state, and supporting efforts to recognise the Palestinian state at the international level and accept its full membership in the United Nations. The Council also emphasised the Summit's call for the deployment of international protection and peacekeeping forces affiliated with the United Nations in the occupied Palestinian territory until the two-state solution is implemented.

23. The Ministerial Council emphasised the importance of the statement of the Extraordinary Arab Summit (Palestine Summit) regarding the deployment of international protection and peacekeeping forces in the Palestinian territories in Gaza and the West Bank, pursuant to a Security Council resolution. 

24. The Ministerial Council welcomed the reform measures taken by the Palestinian leadership and the appointment of Mr Hussain Al-Shaikh as Vice President of the State of Palestine and Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, stressing that these measures will strengthen Palestinian political action and contribute to efforts to restore the inherent rights of the brotherly Palestinian people.

25. The Ministerial Council called on all countries to take the necessary measures to recognise the State of Palestine and support the national rights of the Palestinian people. The Council commended the United Nations General Assembly resolution of September 13, 2024, regarding "the termination of the illegal presence in the occupied Palestinian territories" and Palestine's eligibility for full membership in the United Nations, calling on the Security Council to swiftly issue a resolution granting the State of Palestine full membership in the United Nations. 

26. The Ministerial Council condemned the Israeli occupation's ratification of the separation of 13 settlement neighbourhoods in the West Bank, its continued construction of settlement units in the occupied Palestinian territories, the expulsion of Palestinians from their homes, and its complete rejection of the annexation of settlements in the West Bank to Israel. This is in clear violation of the United Nations Charter, the principles of international law, and United Nations resolutions, including Security Council Resolution 2334 of 2016, the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of 2004, and the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949. The Council called on the international community to pressure the Israeli authorities to reverse their settlement decisions, which violate international laws and resolutions.

27. The Ministerial Council condemned the continued attacks by the Israeli occupation in the West Bank and its systematic destruction of infrastructure, calling on the international community to exert efforts to prevent further loss of life and avoid further escalation of the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories. 

28. The Ministerial Council condemned the shooting by Israeli occupation forces of a diplomatic delegation comprising ambassadors and representatives of Arab and foreign countries during their visit to the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank on May 21, 2025, demanding an immediate end to Israeli violations against civilians, diplomatic missions, and relief organisations operating in the occupied Palestinian territories.

29. The Ministerial Council condemned the storming of the Al Aqsa Mosque by the Israeli Minister of National Security under the protection of the occupation police, and the expulsion of worshipers from it on April 2, 2025, in violation of Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2334. The Council condemned the repeated incursions by Israeli settlers and officials into the Al Aqsa Mosque compound, a grave violation of international law and the historical and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its holy sites, a violation of the sanctity of the Al Aqsa Mosque, and a provocation of Muslim sentiments. The Council emphasised that the ongoing violations and attacks on holy sites exacerbate tensions and push the situation into a spiral of ongoing violence.

30. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the efforts of the international coalition to implement the two-state solution, and its support for the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in partnership with the Kingdom of Norway and the European Union, to set a timetable for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and the end of the Israeli occupation. It welcomed the results of the meeting held in Antalya on April 11, 2025, and the results of the meeting held in the Kingdom of Morocco on May 20, 2025, calling on all countries seeking peace to join this initiative. 

31. The Ministerial Council emphasised the importance of participation in the high-level international conference to reach a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and implement the two-state solution, scheduled to be held at the United Nations headquarters in New York in June 2025, co-chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France.

32. The Ministerial Council emphasised the importance of the Arab Ministerial Committee in Support of the State of Palestine continuing its work at the international level to support the State of Palestine's efforts to obtain further recognition, obtain full membership in the United Nations, hold an international peace conference, and provide international protection for the Palestinian people.

33. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the initiative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the European Union, and the League of Arab States to revive the Middle East peace process and launch the "Peace Day" effort, along with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. 

34. The Ministerial Council condemned the decision of the Israeli occupation authorities to close six schools run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem on April 11, 2025. The Council emphasised the importance of the international community's support for the Agency under these critical humanitarian circumstances, its key role in supporting relief, humanitarian and development efforts, and the importance of its continued performance of its mandate, ensuring the provision of basic needs for the Palestinian people, mitigating the effects of the humanitarian crisis in occupied Palestine, and ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of all forms of support for refugees.

Iranian Occupation of the Three Islands of the United Arab Emirates:

35. The Ministerial Council affirmed its firm positions and previous decisions condemning Iran's continued occupation of the three islands (Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa) of the United Arab Emirates, reaffirming the following:

A. Supporting the UAE's right to sovereignty over its three islands—Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa—and over their territorial waters, airspace, continental shelf, and exclusive economic zone, as an integral part of the UAE's territory.

B. Considering any decisions, practices, or actions taken by Iran on the three islands null and void and ineffective, they do not alter the historical and legal facts that unanimously support the UAE's right to sovereignty over its three islands.

C. Calling on Iran to respond to the UAE's efforts to resolve the issue through direct negotiations or by resorting to the International Court of Justice.

36. The Ministerial Council condemned the Iranian government’s continued construction of residential facilities to settle Iranians on the three Emirati islands occupied by Iran, and the escalating positions and measures taken by the Iranian authorities, including the statements issued by the Commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ Naval Forces, Ali Reza Tangsiri, on March 1, 2025, claiming ownership of the three islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa, belonging to Iran, and the announcement by Ali Akbar Safaei, Deputy Minister of Roads and Urban Development, on November 5, 2024, of the start of construction of 110 housing units on Abu Musa Island, and the announcement of the opening of the Abu Musa Multipurpose Port, and the statements issued by the Iranian Minister of Heritage, Culture and Tourism, Reza Salehi Amiri, on November 1, 2024, regarding the existence of a plan to establish a tourist, recreational, and residential complex extending over an area of 30 hectares on Abu Musa Island, and the statements issued by the Iranian Deputy Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Arsalan Maleki, on May 12, 2024, regarding Iran’s intention to provide land and residential projects that are not legitimate in the occupied island of Abu Musa.

37. The Ministerial Council condemned the Iranian military manoeuvres involving the three occupied islands of the United Arab Emirates—Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa—and the territorial waters, airspace, continental shelf, and exclusive economic zone of the three islands, considering them an integral part of the territory of the United Arab Emirates. The most recent of these manoeuvres took place on May 13, 2025, when the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' naval forces implemented new operational military arrangements in the area of what Iran calls the “Naziat Islands”, which comprise the three UAE islands occupied by Iran. This exercise was conducted upon the orders of Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces. 

38. The Ministerial Council condemned the repeated visits by senior Iranian officials to the three occupied UAE islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa, the most recent of which was on April 13, 2025. Ahmad Nafisi, Assistant for Political and Security Affairs to the Governor of Hormozgan Province, participated in the ceremony held on Abu Musa Island to bid farewell to the island’s new and former governor, stating, “The three islands were and will always remain Iranian”. On March 22, 2025, Admiral Ali Reza Tangsiri, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, and a number of senior IRGC Navy field commanders also visited the UAE islands occupied by Iran, inspecting bases and underground warehouses and reviewing the readiness of equipment, missiles and air defence systems. On March 8, 2025, Farzana Sadiq, Minister of Roads and Urban Development, honoured the winners of an architectural competition for the Abu Musa residential complex on the UAE island of Abu Musa, occupied by Iran. The Minister stated, “Abu Musa is not just an island; it is also part of the national identity”.

39. The Ministerial Council commended the European Union's position on the Iranian occupation of the three occupied islands belonging to the United Arab Emirates in the joint statement of the first GCC-EU summit issued on October 16, 2024, in Brussels.

Regulating Navigation in Khor Abdullah:

40. The Ministerial Council stressed Iraq's need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the State of Kuwait, and to abide by its bilateral and international commitments and agreements, as well as all relevant United Nations resolutions, particularly Security Council Resolution 833 (1993) regarding the demarcation of the Kuwaiti-Iraqi land and maritime borders. The Council called for the completion of the demarcation of the maritime border between the two countries beyond Maritime Marker 162, in accordance with the rules and principles of international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Council also called on the Government of Iraq to abide by the Agreement Regulating Maritime Navigation in Khor Abdullah, signed between the State of Kuwait and Iraq on April 29, 2012, which entered into force on December 5, 2013, and was jointly deposited with the United Nations on December 18, 2013. The Ministerial Council expressed its complete rejection of the contents of the ruling of the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq in this regard, as well as its rejection of the historical fallacies contained in the ruling's grounds. It considered any unilateral decisions, practices, or actions taken by Iraq related to the Khor Abdullah Agreement null and void. It also rejected Iraq's unilateral action to cancel the Security Exchange Protocol signed in 2008 and its map adopted in the Joint Plan to Ensure the Safety of Navigation in Khor Abdullah, signed between the two sides on December 28, 2014, which included a clear and specific mechanism for amendment and cancellation.

41. The Ministerial Council stressed the importance of achieving positive progress regarding the demarcation of the maritime border between the State of Kuwait and the Republic of Iraq in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the rules and principles of international law. It emphasised the importance of the Joint Technical and Legal Committee for the Demarcation of Maritime Borders Beyond Milestone 162 fully adhering to the contents of all its minutes. 

42. The Ministerial Council affirmed its absolute rejection of any infringement on the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait over all its territories, islands, highlands and all its maritime areas.

Durra Field:

43. The Ministerial Council affirmed that the entire Durra Field lies within the maritime areas of the State of Kuwait, and that ownership of the natural resources in the submerged divided zone adjacent to the Saudi-Kuwaiti divided zone, including the entire Durra Field, is jointly owned by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait only, and that they alone have full rights to exploit the natural resources in that zone, in accordance with the provisions of international law and based on the agreements concluded and in force between them. The Council affirmed its absolute rejection of any claims that any other party has rights in this field or the submerged zone adjacent to the divided zone within its designated borders between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait.

Promoting the Principles of Tolerance and Peaceful Coexistence, and Combating Terrorism and Extremism:

44.  The Ministerial Council affirmed its firm positions and decisions regarding terrorism and extremism, regardless of their source, rejecting all its forms and manifestations, and condemning its motives and justifications, as well as working to dry up its sources of funding, stressing that terrorism is not linked to any religion, culture, nationality, or ethnic group.  Moreover, the Ministerial Council emphasised the sanctity of shedding blood and harming civilians and civilian facilities such as schools, places of worship, and hospitals.

45. The Ministerial Council affirmed that tolerance and coexistence between nations and peoples are among the most important principles and values upon which the societies of the GCC countries and their dealings with other peoples are based. It stressed the importance of consolidating the values of dialogue and respect between peoples and cultures, calling for concerted international efforts to promote these principles in all societies. Additionally, the Council emphasised the need to spread the culture of religious tolerance, dialogue, and coexistence, while rejecting everything that would spread hatred and extremism. It condemned statements that are offensive to Islam, Muslims, and Islamic civilization, stressing the importance of addressing all manifestations of hatred, intolerance, negative stereotyping, and distortion of the image of religions.

46. The Ministerial Council called for deterrent measures to combat terrorism, extremism, hate speech and incitement, due to their negative impact on social peace and the sustainability of international peace and security, and encouraging the spread, escalation and recurrence of conflicts around the world, in addition to undermining security and stability, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2686 (2023) and Resolution 2734 (2024).

47. The Ministerial Council condemned the continued foreign support for terrorist groups and sectarian militias in the Middle East, which threaten Arab national security, destabilise the region, and hinder international efforts to combat terrorism, especially the efforts of the international coalition to combat ISIS.

48. The Ministerial Council praised the vigilance and efficiency of the Jordanian security services and their efforts to confront the terrorist plots that targeted national security in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, condemning these plots that seek to incite chaos and sabotage, and the Ministerial Council affirmed the GCC's stand with Jordan and its support for all measures it takes to maintain security and stability.

49. The Ministerial Council condemned the terrorist attacks that occurred in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, which targeted a security facility in the northwest of the country on March 6, 2025, and a train in the southwestern province of Balochistan on March 12, 2025. It also condemned the attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 23, 2025, the attack on a mosque in a village in southwestern Niger on March 24, 2025, and the assault on military sites in Benin on April 21, 2025. These attacks resulted in numerous casualties. The Council expressed its sincere condolences to the victims' families and its heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured.

50. The Ministerial Council stressed the importance of international and regional coordination to confront terrorist groups and sectarian militias, stressing the importance of strengthening the GCC's relations with brotherly and friendly countries, and working with regional and international organisations to combat the phenomenon of terrorism and extremism and its dangerous effects and repercussions on the region and its threat to regional and international peace, stability and security.

Iran:

51. The Ministerial Council reaffirmed its consistent positions and decisions regarding relations with Iran. It emphasised the necessity for Iran to adhere to the fundamental principles based on the United Nations Charter and international law, including the principles of good neighbourliness, respect for state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, peaceful resolution of disputes, and the rejection of the use or threat of force, as well as the condemnation of terrorism, extremism, and sectarianism.

52. The Ministerial Council expressed its concern over developments in the Iranian nuclear file. It emphasised the importance of swiftly reaching constructive agreements to maintain the security and stability of the region. The Ministerial Council stated that the GCC is prepared to cooperate and engage effectively on this issue and stressed the necessity of participating in all regional and international negotiations, discussions, and meetings related to it. These negotiations should address not only the Iranian nuclear programme but also all security concerns of the member states, including ballistic and cruise missiles, drones, the safety of international navigation, and oil facilities. This approach aims to achieve common goals and interests while respecting state sovereignty, principles of good neighborliness, and adherence to United Nations resolutions and international legitimacy to enhance regional and international security and stability.

53. The Ministerial Council underscored the importance of Iran's commitment not to exceed uranium enrichment levels required for peaceful uses. It also highlighted the necessity for Iran to fulfill all its obligations and fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

54. The Ministerial Council welcomed the talks between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, appreciating the Sultanate of Oman’s efforts in hosting and facilitating these high-level discussions. It affirmed its support for these diplomatic efforts and the pursuit of dialogue to resolve conflicts and disputes peacefully. Additionally, the Ministerial Council expressed hope that these talks will lead to regional and international security and stability.

55. The Ministerial Council expressed its condolences and sympathy to the Islamic Republic of Iran and the families of the victims of the explosion that occurred at the Rajaei Port in Bandar Abbas, southern Iran, on April 26, 2025. The incident resulted in the death and injury of several civilians, and the Council extended its heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured.

56. The Ministerial Council stressed the importance of maintaining maritime security and waterways in the region, and confronting activities that threaten the security and stability of the region and the world, including targeting commercial vessels, threatening maritime shipping lanes, international trade, and oil facilities in the GCC countries.

Yemen:

57. The Ministerial Council reaffirmed its full support for the Presidential Leadership Council, headed by Dr Rashad Mohammed Al Alimi, and the entities supporting it to achieve security and stability in Yemen. It called for a comprehensive political solution in accordance with the Gulf Initiative and its executive mechanism, the outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference, and Security Council Resolution 2216 in order to protect Yemen's sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, and independence. Moreover, the Council welcomed the appointment of Mr Salem Saleh bin Braik as Prime Minister of the Republic of Yemen, wishing him success in fulfilling his constitutional duties to achieve security, stability, and development for the Yemeni people.

58. The Ministerial Council welcomed the ongoing sincere efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, along with the communications with all Yemeni parties, to revive the political process. It emphasised the importance of the Houthis engaging positively with international and UN efforts aimed at ending the Yemeni crisis and seriously addressing peace initiatives and efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people.

59. The Ministerial Council reiterated its support for the efforts of the United Nations and its Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, to achieve a comprehensive political solution in accordance with the three references. Besides, the Council praised the Yemeni government's commitment to renewing the humanitarian truce announced by the United Nations in Yemen.

60. The Ministerial Council welcomed the Sultanate of Oman’s announcement of a ceasefire in Yemen aimed at protecting international navigation and trade. It emphasised the importance of de-escalation to maintain security and stability in the region and to respect the right to maritime navigation in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 1982. The Council condemned the continued foreign interference in Yemen's internal affairs and the smuggling of military experts and weapons to the Houthi militias, in clear violation of Security Council Resolutions 2216, 2231, and 2624. The Ministerial Council reiterated its support for all efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive political solution to the Yemeni crisis, ensuring security and stability for Yemen and the region.

61. The Ministerial Council praised the achievements of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) and the humanitarian support provided by the Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance from the GCC to the Republic of Yemen. It acknowledged the humanitarian and developmental assistance offered by all member states to Yemen, highlighting the vital development projects and programmes implemented by the Saudi Programme for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen, which has reached 263 projects and initiatives across seven key sectors: education, health, water, energy, transportation, agriculture, and fisheries, as well as capacity building for government institutions. Additionally, it noted the support for the Yemeni government's budget, salaries, operational expenses, and food security efforts. The Council also recognised the Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance MASAM which has successfully cleared 493,256 landmines, unexploded ordnance, and explosives, and has purified 66,860,348 square meters of land in Yemen that were contaminated with mines and munitions carelessly planted by Houthi militias, resulting in casualties among innocent children, women, and the elderly.

Iraq:

62. The Ministerial Council reaffirmed its consistent positions and decisions regarding the sisterly Republic of Iraq, supporting ongoing efforts to achieve security and stability in the country. It stressed the importance of preserving Iraq's territorial integrity, full sovereignty, Arab identity, social fabric, and national unity. The Council condemned all terrorist operations targeting Iraq and affirmed the GCC's commitment to standing with Iraq in combating terrorism and extremism, as well as supporting its fight against terrorist groups and armed militias.

63. The Ministerial Council expressed support for Security Council Resolution 2732 (2024) and stressed the importance of the Security Council's continued monitoring of developments regarding humanitarian issues of prisoners and missing persons, as well as the Kuwaiti property file, including the national archive. It reiterated the need to adhere to the Security Council's framework as stated in Resolution 2107 (2013), which set the reporting framework for related matters to the Security Council alone, in addition to continuing the mechanism for periodic reporting on these issues. The Council noted that this has contributed to tangible positive developments. It emphasised that a fair and appropriate alternative after the completion of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) is the appointment of a senior coordinator by the Secretary General to follow up on humanitarian and national issues related to Kuwait, similar to practices before Security Council Resolution 2107 (2013), as this mechanism has proven successful. The Council called on the Iraqi government to cooperate to make progress in this regard and to exert maximum efforts to reach a final resolution on these files.

64. The Ministerial Council emphasised the positive partnership between the GCC and Iraq, reiterating its commitment to advancing the electrical interconnection project to link Iraq with the electricity grid of the GCC countries, thereby achieving greater integration and connectivity between Iraq and the member states, which serves their mutual interests and paves the way for further cooperation in the future.

Syria:

65. The Ministerial Council underlined the importance of respecting the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of the sisterly Syrian Arab Republic, and rejecting foreign interference in its internal affairs. It also emphasised that Syria's security and stability are a fundamental pillar of regional security. The Council affirmed the need to adhere to the principles of the United Nations Charter, including state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, good neighbourliness, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, in order to protect regional and international peace and security. It also emphasised the need to confront terrorism and chaos, combat extremism, fanaticism, and incitement, respect diversity, and refrain from insulting the beliefs of others. The Council condemned all acts of violence aimed at destabilising Syria.

66. The Ministerial Council welcomed the formation of the Syrian government and the agreement to integrate all civil and military institutions in northeastern Syria into state institutions. It condemned the armed attacks carried out by lawless groups, urging the need for restraint, and affirmed the GCC's support for the Syrian government in preserving security, stability, and civil peace.

67. The Ministerial Council welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump's response to Saudi Arabia's request to lift sanctions on the sisterly Arab Republic of Syria, appreciating this significant step toward the reconstruction of Syria and its revival on regional and international levels. The Council expressed its gratitude for the United Kingdom and European Union's announcement to lift sanctions imposed on Syria, viewing these steps as measures that would enhance the Syrian people's confidence in their future, support the economy, and maintain the national fabric and civil peace in Syria

68. The Ministerial Council condemned the repeated Israeli aggressions, violations, and attacks on the sisterly Arab Republic of Syria, including the airstrike targeting the vicinity of the presidential palace in Damascus on May 2, 2025, and the attacks carried out by Israeli occupation forces in Daraa province on March 18, 2025, as well as the bombing of the town of Koya on March 25, 2025. These attacks resulted in civilian casualties and caused significant damage to facilities and infrastructure.

69. The Ministerial Council affirmed that the Golan Heights is Arab Syrian land, condemning Israeli occupation decisions to expand settlement in the occupied Golan and the occupation of the buffer zone on the Syrian border, in gross violation of the UN Charter, international law principles, and relevant Security Council resolutions. The Council stressed the need for the international community to fulfill its responsibilities to stop these aggressions against Syrian territory and for Israel to withdraw from all occupied Syrian lands. It emphasised the necessity of implementing Security Council Resolution 2766, dated December 20, 2024, regarding the obligation of all parties to adhere to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.

70. The Ministerial Council praised the efforts of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar in settling Syria's arrears to the World Bank Group to accelerate the recovery of Syria's economy. It welcomed the results of the ninth donors' conference for Syria held in Brussels on March 17, 2025, where total pledges amounted to 5.8 billion euros, reaffirming support for the Syrian government's efforts and mobilising international cooperation to coordinate assistance for Syria’s economy.

71. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the efforts of the Arab League, brotherly and friendly countries, and the United Nations in assisting the Syrian people to achieve a political process led by the Syrian brothers, as well as in caring for refugees and displaced persons.

72. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the efforts of the United Nations and its Special Envoy for Syria, as well as the ongoing efforts to care for Syrian refugees and displaced persons, and to facilitate their safe and voluntary return to Syria in accordance with international standards. It rejected any attempts to create demographic changes in Syria and reiterated the call for the UN Secretary-General to establish a United Nations mission to assist and oversee the transitional process in Syria.

73. The Ministerial Council acknowledged the generous aid and humanitarian bridges provided by the GCC countries to the sisterly Syrian people, as well as the assistance offered by brotherly and friendly nations to meet urgent humanitarian needs.

Lebanon:

74. The Ministerial Council affirmed its steadfast positions regarding the sisterly Republic of Lebanon, its continued support for Lebanon's sovereignty, security, and stability, and the importance of implementing political and economic reforms. It emphasised that Lebanon should not become a launch point for terrorism, drug trafficking, or other criminal activities that threaten the security and stability of the region.

75. The Ministerial Council expressed its support for the reform process and the building of the Lebanese state, hoping that Lebanon would regain security and peace and achieve the aspirations of the Lebanese people for stability, prosperity, and development.

76. The Ministerial Council stressed the necessity of adhering to the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, condemning the ongoing Israeli aggressions that have resulted in thousands of civilian casualties, displacement, and the destruction of infrastructure and civilian health facilities. It also condemned the targeting of United Nations peacekeeping forces (UNIFIL), in violation of international law and Security Council resolutions. The Council underlined the need to implement Security Council resolutions concerning Lebanon, particularly Resolution 1701 and the Taif Agreement, to restore lasting security and stability in Lebanon, ensure respect for its territorial integrity, political independence, and sovereignty within its internationally recognised borders, and to establish the Lebanese government's control over all Lebanese territories.

77. The Ministerial Council supported the efforts of the Quintet Group regarding Lebanon, which emphasised the importance of implementing necessary economic reforms for the Lebanese government to fulfill its responsibilities toward its citizens. It praised the efforts of Lebanon's friends and partners in restoring and enhancing trust and cooperation between Lebanon and the GCC, as well as their support for the role of the Lebanese Army and internal security forces in maintaining Lebanon's security.

78. The Ministerial Council acknowledged the aid provided by GCC countries to the sisterly Lebanese people, as well as the assistance offered by brotherly and friendly nations to meet urgent humanitarian needs.

79. The Ministerial Council called for intensified international and regional efforts to provide urgent humanitarian support to Lebanon to alleviate the suffering of civilians, protect them from any serious repercussions, and avoid involvement in regional conflicts while preventing the escalation of disputes in the region.

Libya:

80. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the sisterly State of Libya, the Libyan-Libyan political solution, and relevant Security Council resolutions, which preserve its security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, halt interference in its internal affairs, and ensure the withdrawal of all foreign forces, mercenaries, and foreign fighters from Libyan territory.

81. The Ministerial Council called on all parties in Libya to prevail wisdom and reason and adopt political dialogue to resolve differences, in a manner that preserves the supreme interests of the State of Libya and fulfils its people's aspirations for development and prosperity. The Council affirmed its support for the United Nations' efforts to reach a political solution to the Libyan crisis, hold elections, unify state institutions, and achieve the aspirations of the brotherly Libyan people for security, stability, and development.

82. The Ministerial Council welcomed the appointment, on January 24, 2025, of Ms Hanna Serwaa Tetteh as Special Representative of the Secretary General for Libya. 

83. The Ministerial Council welcomed Security Council Resolution 2769, dated January 16, 2025, allowing Libyan institutions to invest frozen cash reserves in time deposits with international financial institutions.

Somalia:

84. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the Federal Republic of Somalia in all efforts that support its security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, thus ensuring a decent standard of living for its brotherly people.

85. The Ministerial Council welcomed the agreement reached between the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on December 11, 2024, expressing its appreciation for the efforts of the Republic of Turkey in facilitating dialogue between the two sides to reach this agreement and restore full diplomatic relations, which is an important step to enhance security and stability in the Horn of Africa region. 

86. The Ministerial Council condemned the terrorist attack targeting the convoy of the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia on March 19, 2025, and the terrorist attack on the Zero Damayo military base in Mogadishu on May 19, 2025. The Council reiterated its rejection of acts of violence, terrorism and extremism, affirming its support for the Government of Somalia in all measures it takes to preserve its security and stability.

87. The Ministerial Council affirmed Security Council Resolution 2767 of December 27, 2024, which affirmed full respect for Somalia's sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and unity, and the need for a comprehensive approach that strengthens the foundations of peace and stability, in line with the priorities identified by the Government of Somalia.

88. The Ministerial Council called on the international community to stand by Somalia and support it in confronting political, security, and economic challenges.

Afghanistan:

89. The Ministerial Council emphasised the importance of restoring security and stability in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, which will fulfil the aspirations of the brotherly Afghan people and benefit regional and international security and peace. It also emphasised the importance of guaranteeing women's rights to education and work, protecting minorities, and ensuring that Afghan territory is not used by any terrorist groups or exploited for drug trafficking. The Council also affirmed its solidarity with the people of Afghanistan in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and enhancing security and stability within their territory.

90. The Ministerial Council commended the ongoing humanitarian and relief assistance provided by its member states, stressing the importance of continued humanitarian, economic, and development assistance from the international community to alleviate the suffering of the Afghan people.

India and Pakistan:

91. The Ministerial Council welcomed the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan and their commitment to wisdom and restraint, expressing hope that this agreement will lead to the restoration of security and peace in the region. The Council commended the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which contributed to de-escalation and ending military confrontations.

92. The Ministerial Council underlined the importance of restoring security and stability in the Indian subcontinent and resolving disputes through diplomatic means, while committing to the principles of good neighbourhood, the provisions of international law, and the resolutions of the United Nations. The Council also stressed the need to refrain from the use of force or threats, underscoring the role of the United Nations in resolving conflicts.​

The Crisis between Russia and Ukraine:

93. The Ministerial Council affirmed that its position on the Russian-Ukrainian crisis is based on the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, and the preservation of the international order based on respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of states, non-interference in their internal affairs, and the non-use or threat of force.

94. The Ministerial Council commended the diplomatic efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its hosting of talks between the Russian Federation and the United States of America on the Ukrainian crisis, expressing its hope that these talks will achieve their desired goals of enhancing security and stability. 

95. The Ministerial Council affirmed its support for the mediation efforts and initiatives undertaken by the GCC states, as well as their positive strives, to contribute to a political solution to the crisis between Russia and Ukraine, and for international and regional efforts to resolve the crisis, including the meetings of the National Security Advisors held in Jeddah, Copenhagen, and Doha.

96. The Ministerial Council commended the success of the mediation efforts of the United Arab Emirates between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Ukraine, which led to the completion of a prisoner exchange involving 4,181 prisoners from both sides. It also commended the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in releasing detainees and exchanging prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, and the success of the State of Qatar's mediation in reuniting Ukrainian and Russian children with their families. It noted the efforts of all GCC states and their success in mediating the prisoner exchange between the two parties, based on their commitment to humanitarian principles and international solidarity in building peace and stability. 

97. The Ministerial Council commended the humanitarian and relief aid provided by its countries to Ukraine, stressing the importance of continuing to support all efforts to facilitate the export of grain and all food and humanitarian supplies to contribute to ensuring food security for affected countries.

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships with Other Countries and Groups:

98. The Ministerial Council commended the outcomes of the Gulf-US Summit hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on May 14, 2025.

99. The Ministerial Council commended the outcomes of the Second Joint Summit between the GCC and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), held on May 27, 2025.

100. The Ministerial Council commended the outcomes of the Trilateral Summit between the GCC, ASEAN and the People's Republic of China, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on May 27, 2025.

101. The Ministerial Council emphasised the importance of strengthening economic relations with countries and international economic blocs to achieve the commercial and investment interests of the GCC states and enhance their regional and international standing, including through negotiations on free trade agreements, which the GCC is working on with a number of countries and international economic blocs.

Issued in Kuwait

6 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 H 

corresponding to 2 June 2025

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