Gulf countries said on Thursday that they wanted to be involved in any talks between the United States and Iran, insisting that while they had a right to self-defence, they preferred diplomacy.

“We emphasise the necessity of involving the GCC countries in any talks or agreements to resolve this crisis, in a way that contributes to strengthening their security and stability,” Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary General Jasem AlBudaiwi said in a televised speech.

AlBudaiwi also said Iran had been asking vessels to pay sums of money to cross the Strait of Hormuz.

Albudaiwi said Iranian strikes on energy facilities in GCC countries, including key refineries in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, constitute a “brutal aggression” not only against the region but also against the global economy.

He cautioned that disruptions such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could have long-term implications for global economic growth.

Describing the crisis as an “international responsibility,” Albudaiwi stressed the need to protect global oil supply chains and maritime routes, warning that today’s threats could intensify if left unaddressed.

“Our main message to our partners in the world is to send a unified international message to Iran to stop immediately and unconditionally its attacks against GCC countries,” he said.

Despite the escalating tensions, Albudaiwi emphasised that the GCC does not seek confrontation with Iran but instead aims to build constructive relations.

“Our goal is not to destroy Iran, but to establish a good relationship,” he stated, adding that further deterioration in the Gulf could have consequences beyond the region.

Call for respect and regional stability

Reiterating the bloc’s position, Albudaiwi said the GCC seeks “normal relations based on mutual respect” and has consistently called for non-interference in domestic affairs, alongside cooperation in economic and commercial sectors.

He noted that Gulf countries had acted with restraint and “rationality,” but were nonetheless subjected to Iranian attacks.

He described these actions as violations of the GCC’s legal framework, affirming that member states have the right to defend themselves.

“Iran is at the centre of the crisis in the region and must stop these unjustified claims and attacks,” he said.

Albudaiwi also underscored the unity of the GCC, stating that any attack on one member state is considered an attack on all under the bloc’s collective defence agreement.

He called on the international community to take decisive action to safeguard critical maritime routes, warning against any threats to key shipping lanes.

“The world must assume its responsibility and act firmly against any party endangering naval routes,” he said.