GCC speakers urge unified stance at Istanbul meeting

April 16, 2026 / 6:26 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: Speakers of the legislative councils of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have called for a unified Gulf parliamentary position and coordinated efforts to issue resolutions through the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) condemning Iranian attacks on GCC territories, describing them as violations of international law, sovereignty, and regional security.

Meeting held on sidelines of IPU Assembly in Istanbul

The discussions took place during a coordination meeting on the sidelines of the 152nd IPU Assembly and the 217th Governing Council session hosted by the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye in Istanbul under the theme “Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations.”

UAE delegation highlights importance of coordination

Saqr Ghobash led the UAE parliamentary delegation, with participation from Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi. Ghobash stressed the need to strengthen coordination among GCC parliamentary councils to ensure a stronger collective presence in regional and international forums.

Calls for unified positions on international issues

He emphasised adopting a coordinated stance on agenda items across committees and assemblies to reflect Gulf unity and enhance influence in global parliamentary decision-making, particularly amid current regional challenges.

Condemnation of attacks and call for international action

The speakers said the Iranian attacks represent an attempt to destabilise regional security and violate international law and principles of good neighbourliness. They urged a firm parliamentary response rejecting such actions and reaffirming respect for state sovereignty.

Focus on regional security and global stability

The meeting also addressed emergency agenda items, including the security of air and maritime navigation and supply chains, highlighting that stability in the Arabian Gulf is essential to global energy and economic stability.

Support for coordinated parliamentary initiatives

Participants reviewed mechanisms to support emergency proposals at the IPU General Assembly, aiming to reinforce a unified GCC position on pressing regional and international issues.