Bahrain: On behalf of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State, represented the United Arab Emirates at a Joint Ministerial Meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the United States. The meeting was hosted by Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani, Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain, which holds the rotating presidency of the GCC. The United States was represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting focused on current developments in the region, including Iran's hostile actions against GCC member states and the illegal closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Participants welcomed the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding as a step towards regional de-escalation. The discussions underscored the enduring US commitment to GCC security and the US-GCC Strategic Partnership, emphasizing a collaborative path forward for regional stability.
Nusseibeh highlighted the critical importance of close consultation between the US and Gulf partners, welcoming continued dialogue. She stressed that Gulf consultation, inclusion, and participation are necessary for any solution designed to deliver lasting security. Nusseibeh pointed out the consequences of Iran's hostile actions and emphasized that solutions should reflect the perspectives of those most affected by these security concerns.
The Minister of State stressed the importance of safeguarding international law and ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open and secure. She called for measures to prevent actions that undermine maritime security, impede commerce, or constitute piracy. Furthermore, Nusseibeh warned against allowing Iran to benefit from its illegal activities in the Strait.
On Lebanon, she emphasized the importance of supporting the Lebanese Government, Armed Forces, and people in achieving security, stability, and development. Nusseibeh also highlighted the need for Syria's political transition and the mobilization of international institutions for reconstruction efforts. She reiterated the UAE's solidarity with the Syrian people, supporting endeavors for peaceful coexistence and development.
Regarding the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Nusseibeh stressed the necessity of fully implementing Security Council resolution 2803 and supporting the Board of Peace in Gaza. She reaffirmed the UAE's stance on resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on a two-state solution, fulfilling the aspirations of the Palestinian people to establish an independent, sovereign state.