Kuwait City, Kuwait – Leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) called for an end to Israeli violations in Gaza and condemned continued Israeli strikes on Lebanon, despite a ceasefire, during the 45th GCC Summit held in Kuwait on Sunday.

The Kuwait Declaration, issued at the conclusion of the summit and read by Jasem Mohamed al Budaiwi, GCC Secretary General, demanded ‘an end to the killings and collective punishments of civilians in Gaza’ and urged serious ceasefire talks to end the conflict. The leaders reiterated their support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The declaration also welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon after weeks of Israeli strikes and encouraged Lebanese factions to prioritise national unity and the state’s interests.

The GCC leaders highlighted the bloc’s expanding role in addressing political, security, and economic challenges both regionally and globally. They emphasised the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving disputes, in line with international law.

Opening the summit, Sheikh Meshal al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait and Chairman of the current session, described the GCC as “an honourable embodiment of unity and a bright example of the strength of union, cohesion, and integration.” He added, “It reflects our firm belief in strengthening and unifying joint Gulf action to keep pace with the challenges resulting from accelerating regional and international events and their repercussions.”

Representing Oman, H H Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers, underscored the importance of the regular GCC summits in fostering closer ties among member states. “The regular holding of these meetings increases cohesion among the people of the GCC states, enhances the Council’s position in the international community, and its ability to address common challenges and achieve further progress and prosperity for all its countries. We in the Sultanate of Oman affirm our determination to continue joint efforts in all areas of cooperation,” he said.