Arabic version: اجتماع قادة مجلس التعاون الخليجي في جدة لمناقشة الأزمة

Gulf leaders have gathered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for their first in-person meeting since the outbreak of the US-Israel war on Iran. The gathering marks a significant moment for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) as they address the regional crisis triggered by the conflict that began two months ago. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed the leaders, including Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, as reported by Saudi state media.

During the summit, discussions focused on various regional and international developments, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts in response to the ongoing situation. According to Al Jazeera, Sheikh Tamim highlighted the summit as a reflection of the unified Gulf stance towards the war, advocating for intensified coordination to pursue diplomatic solutions that would ensure regional security.

The meeting coincided with the UAE’s announcement to withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+, aiming to prioritize its national interests during the ongoing conflict. This decision represents a significant shift for the oil-exporting group amidst the turmoil caused by the war.

As the summit unfolded, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concerns about the potential for a “frozen conflict” in the Gulf, urging against a return to hostilities. The spokesperson emphasized the desire to avoid a situation that could escalate with political motivations in the future.

The backdrop of the summit includes a ceasefire established on April 8, which has led to a decrease in attacks on key energy infrastructure across GCC states. However, leaders remain cautious as the prospect of a permanent resolution between the US and Iran is still uncertain, leaving the region on alert for any resurgence of conflict.