GCC leaders affirm support for Palestine

GCC leaders and representatives issued the Kuwaiti Declaration, which affirms their strong support for for the Palestinian cause, during 45th GCC Summit in Kuwait on Sunday.

The Declaration condemned Israel's ongoing military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank, as well as violations in occupied Jerusalem's holy sites, calling for an immediate end to violence. 

It emphasised the importance of Palestinian sovereignty over all lands occupied since June 1967, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. 

The leaders called for further efforts to strengthen the region's global position as a hub for business and economy, promote sustainable economic diversification, advance digital transformation, stabilise energy markets, and effectively address climate change.

The declaration also highlighted the increasing role of GCC countries in addressing political and economic challenges, both regionally and globally, as well as acknowledged their contributions to resolving issues threatening peace, stability, and security, and to promoting international dialogue.

The summit expressed support for the outcomes of the extraordinary Arab-Islamic summit held in Saudi Arabia on November 11, 2024, which sought to halt the war in Gaza and advance the two-state solution. The leaders also praised Qatar's efforts to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate detainee exchanges. 

Regarding Lebanon, the GCC leaders condemned Israeli aggression and warned of its potential to escalate into a broader regional conflict. They welcomed the temporary ceasefire agreement in Lebanon and called for Israel occupation's withdrawal, the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and the return of displaced persons.

They also expressed solidarity with the Lebanese people and called for a political solution to Lebanon's internal divisions, emphasizing the country‘s role in Arab security and culture.

The leaders reiterated the GCC's commitment to peaceful diplomacy in resolving regional and global disputes, respecting state sovereignty, and adhering to international law. They praised the GCC's growing influence in addressing regional and global challenges, promoting international dialogue, and building strategic partnerships.

They emphasised the need for ongoing implementation of summit decisions to maximise their practical benefits. The leaders of the GCC countries emphasised the need to intensify efforts to strengthen the region's role as a global hub for business and economic activity.