GCC Chief calls for member involvement in crisis talks

Scale of Iranian attacks on GCC countries

In a media briefing on the Iranian attacks, Albudaiwi stated that over a period of 25 days, Iran launched more than 5,000 ballistic missiles and UAVs targeting GCC countries. While most were intercepted, some struck civilian targets, resulting in casualties and property damage. He noted that 85% of the missiles launched during the conflict were directed at GCC states.

Impact on civilians and infrastructure

Albudaiwi cited the latest attack on Abu Dhabi, which caused deaths and injuries, and emphasized that the attacks inflicted significant damage on civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities, desalination plants, hotels, government institutions, embassies, residential buildings, and airports. Several GCC airports had to suspend air traffic as a result.

Performance of GCC air defence systems

He affirmed that GCC air defence systems responded with high professionalism, effectively mitigating the impact of the attacks. However, he stressed that this does not lessen the scale of the aggression nor absolve Iran of responsibility.

Economic significance of the Gulf region

Albudaiwi pointed out the global economic impact of the attacks, noting that GCC countries produce 16 million barrels of oil per day, accounting for 22% of global output, and export 27% of total global crude oil exports. The region holds 33% of the world’s oil reserves and 21% of global natural gas reserves, producing 10% of the world’s natural gas annually, making the Gulf an indispensable pillar of the global economy.

GCC stance on collective defence

He reiterated that GCC member states base their stance on international legitimacy and law, emphasizing that any attack on one member state is considered an attack on all, in line with the GCC Joint Defence Agreement.