Joint GCC-US Statement Backs Iraq's Efforts to Confine Weapons to the State

Ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and the United States, in a joint ministerial meeting on Thursday, affirmed their unwavering support for the Iraqi government's efforts to restrict weapons to state control. The meeting's final communiqué welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran on June 17, acknowledging the significant mediation roles of Pakistan and Qatar. The ministers stressed the necessity of maintaining negotiation momentum and unity to achieve a permanent cessation of hostilities and prevent Iran from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons. The ministers clarified that establishing lasting peace and security in the region requires confronting all forms of Iranian threats, including ballistic missiles, drones, and support for proxy groups. They also emphasized the vital importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, noting that unconditional and unrestricted freedom of navigation, including transit passage guaranteed by international law, remains essential for regional and global security. The ministers rejected any attempts to impose fees, taxes, or control over the Strait and welcomed the announcement by Oman and the International Maritime Organization to begin implementing a plan to evacuate over 11,000 stranded sailors. The ministers stated that any trade and investment with Iran are conditional and revocable, contingent on Tehran's commitment to the MoU and final agreement, cessation of destabilizing behavior, and creation of conditions conducive to economic cooperation. Regarding Lebanon, the ministers affirmed their full commitment to its sovereignty, security, stability, and territorial integrity. They welcomed the ongoing US-sponsored bilateral negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, aimed at creating conditions for a permanent peace and security agreement. They also supported the comprehensive plan presented by President Trump to end the conflict in Gaza, endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803. They stressed disarming all non-state armed groups for Gaza's reconstruction and the necessity of handing over responsibility to an independent Palestinian technocratic civil committee. Concerning Iraqi affairs, the ministers condemned attacks by Iran-backed groups in Iraq against GCC states, including drone attacks damaging civilian facilities, vital infrastructure, and energy security. They reiterated support for the new Iraqi government's efforts to restrict weapons to state control and prevent non-state armed groups from using Iraqi territory to threaten neighbors. The statement underscored the importance of the Iraqi government taking all necessary measures to ensure the security and safety of all diplomatic missions in Iraq, protecting them from threats or attacks, in line with Iraq's international obligations. The ministers affirmed Kuwait's sovereignty over its territorial waters, calling on the Iraqi government to fulfill its bilateral and international commitments.