EU and GCC Leaders Condemn Iranian Attacks Amid Escalating Tensions

On March 5, 2026, foreign ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) convened an extraordinary meeting in Brussels to address the escalating conflict in the Middle East, specifically condemning recent Iranian missile and drone strikes against GCC countries. The ministers described these attacks as "unjustifiable" and a direct threat to both regional and global security. They called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and reaffirmed the right of GCC states to defend themselves under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

GCC, EU affirm Gulf countries’ right to defend securityGCC-EU Joint Statement Urges Iran to Immediately Halt Attacks, Cites Right to Self-DefenseGCC and EU ministers urge immediate halt to Iranian attacksGCC, EU issue joint statement affirming GCC states' right to self-defenceEU and Gulf states condemn Iranian attacks on GCC countries after emergency meetingAlbares expresses his “full solidarity” with the Gulf countries and his “strongest condemnation” of Iran’s attacks

The meeting occurred against a backdrop of heightened tensions following a series of US-Israeli military actions against Iran, which have reportedly resulted in significant casualties and damage. Iranian state media claimed that over 1,230 people had died since the onset of these attacks. In response, Iran has targeted various GCC nations, including Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, with strikes that have endangered civilian infrastructure and raised concerns about global energy markets.

Al Jazeera (website)

Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the bloc's commitment to regional stability and the protection of civilian life. She stated, "The EU is following developments in Iran and the Middle East with the utmost concern," highlighting the potential for further escalation. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares expressed "full solidarity" with the Gulf countries, condemning Iran's actions and reiterating Spain's commitment to regional security.

European Union condemns Iranian attacks on countries in regionAl MonitorEU and Gulf states condemn Iranian attacks on GCC countries after emergency meetingAlbares expresses his “full solidarity” with the Gulf countries and his “strongest condemnation” of Iran’s attacksGCC-EU Joint Statement Urges Iran to Immediately Halt Attacks, Cites Right to Self-DefenseGCC, EU affirm Gulf countries’ right to defend security

Despite the unified front presented by the EU and GCC, there are dissenting views within Europe regarding military involvement. Spain has taken a principled stance against the use of its military bases for US operations against Iran, leading to tensions with the United States. In contrast, countries like Italy and the UK have announced plans to deploy military assets to the region, citing defensive purposes.

Al Jazeera (website)

The ministers underscored the interconnectedness of Gulf security with global economic stability, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb. They acknowledged that the security of the Gulf region is crucial for international energy markets and supply chains. The EU also expressed gratitude to GCC states for their assistance to EU nationals in the region.

GCC, EU affirm Gulf countries’ right to defend securityGCC-EU Joint Statement Urges Iran to Immediately Halt Attacks, Cites Right to Self-DefenseEU and GCC ministers: Gulf security is a fundamental pillar of global economyAlbares expresses his “full solidarity” with the Gulf countries and his “strongest condemnation” of Iran’s attacksGCC, EU issue joint statement affirming GCC states' right to self-defenceEU and Gulf states condemn Iranian attacks on GCC countries after emergency meeting

Both the EU and GCC leaders committed to intensifying diplomatic efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to halt the proliferation of ballistic missiles. They praised Oman’s role in mediation efforts and reiterated their preference for dialogue over military confrontation. The joint statement concluded with a call for a return to negotiations to restore regional stability and security.

GCC, EU issue joint statement affirming GCC states' right to self-defence

• “the unjustifiable Iranian attacks against GCC countries, which threaten regional and global security,” — Kaja Kallas, EU Foreign Policy Chief

Albares expresses his “full solidarity” with the Gulf countries and his “strongest condemnation” of Iran’s attacks

• “Our full solidarity with the Gulf countries and our strongest condemnation of the unjustifiable attacks they are suffering from Iran,” — José Manuel Albares, Spanish Foreign Minister

Albares expresses his “full solidarity” with the Gulf countries and his “strongest condemnation” of Iran’s attacks

• “They stressed that GCC countries have the right to take all necessary measures to protect their security, stability, territories, citizens and residents.” — Joint Statement from EU and GCC Ministers

GCC, EU affirm Gulf countries’ right to defend security

This meeting marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, as European and Gulf leaders seek to navigate the complexities of regional security while advocating for diplomatic solutions.

EU and GCC ministers: Gulf security is a fundamental pillar of global economy