According to Al Arabiya, six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) alongside Jordan condemned what they termed explicit acts of aggression by Iran and its proxies against regional territories, citizens, and civilian infrastructure. In a joint statement issued on Friday, July 24, 2026, the seven nations reported that these attacks have persisted without interruption since February 28, 2026, continuing even after Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on June 17.
Escalation Against Bahrain, Kuwait, and Yordania
The governments of the Gulf and Jordan stated that the military escalation has specifically targeted Bahrain, Kuwait, and Yordania. According to the joint declaration, strikes have hit energy facilities, water desalination plants, ports, airports, and other vital civilian infrastructure across the affected territories.
The coalition emphasized that the ongoing attacks violate the United Nations Charter, international law, international humanitarian law, and UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026). Furthermore, the nations argued that these actions breach Tehran’s explicit commitments under the June MoU, creating a direct threat to international peace and security.
Invocation of Self-Defense and Demands for UN Action
Reaffirming their inherent rights under Article 51 of the UN Charter, the seven countries declared their readiness to engage in individual and collective self-defense. According to the official statement, these states reserve the right to take all necessary legal measures to protect their sovereignty, national territory, citizens, merchant vessels, and critical infrastructure.
The coalition formally called on the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution demanding an immediate halt to Iranian attacks. The proposed resolution would recognize the affected states’ rights to self-defense and consider additional measures if the systematic strikes continue.
Support for Iraqi Measures and Regional Navigation Safety
The joint statement welcomed a decision by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to restrict weaponry exclusively to the state until September 30, 2026. The Gulf states and Jordan expressed backing for Baghdad’s decisive actions aimed at preventing pro-Iranian militias from executing hostile operations across the region.
In addition, the nations commended the preparedness of their armed forces and reiterated their commitment to maintaining the freedom and safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb. According to the report, the governments are prepared to work alongside regional partners and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to establish permanent security arrangements compliant with international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Which countries issued the joint statement against Iran?
The statement was issued by the six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Jordan, as reported by Al Arabiya. -
What specific infrastructure has been targeted according to the report?
Attacks have targeted energy facilities, water desalination plants, ports, airports, and other civilian infrastructure, primarily in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Yordania. -
What legal framework are the affected countries using to justify self-defense?
The nations cite Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, alongside international law and UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026).
To stay informed on unfolding diplomatic developments and regional security updates, subscribe to our newsletter or explore our latest reporting sections.
Related reading