Gulf States and US Welcome Diplomatic Engagement with Iran
In a joint statement issued by the ministers, Gulf states and the US expressed their support for diplomatic engagement with Iran and their commitment to preventing any escalation in the region. The statement was released during a meeting on the sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly in New York, attended by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his US and GCC counterparts.
Regional De-escalation and Adherence to International Law
The ministers welcomed the diplomatic engagement by Saudi Arabia and other GCC states with Iran, emphasizing the importance of regional de-escalation and adherence to international law, including the UN Charter. This signifies a positive step towards resolving conflicts and maintaining stability in the region.
Ensuring Freedom of Navigation and Maritime Security
The meeting also highlighted the commitment to ensuring the freedom of navigation in the region and maritime security. The ministers expressed their determination to deter any illegal actions at sea or elsewhere that might threaten shipping lanes, international trade, and oil installations in the GCC states. This reaffirms the importance of safeguarding vital maritime routes and protecting the interests of all nations involved.
Ceasing Proliferation of Dangerous Weapons
The ministers called on Iran to cease its proliferation of unmanned aerial vehicles and other dangerous weapons that pose a grave security threat to the region. This appeal reflects the concern over the potential risks associated with the development and deployment of such weapons. By urging Iran to halt this proliferation, the ministers aim to maintain peace and stability in the region.
Efforts Towards Resolving the Yemen Conflict
In a separate meeting involving the US, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken welcomed Saudi Arabia hosting a delegation from Sanaa in Riyadh. The discussions aim to find a roadmap to resolve the conflict in Yemen through a Yemeni-led political process under UN auspices. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has committed to providing $1.2 billion in economic support for the Yemeni government. These efforts demonstrate the commitment of all parties involved to finding a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Yemen.
Commitment to the Arab Peace Initiative
The ministers highlighted their commitment to the Arab Peace Initiative and finding a comprehensive peace in the Middle East in accordance with the two-state solution. This reaffirms their dedication to achieving a lasting and just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on the principles outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative.
Seeking a Peaceful Solution to Island Dispute
Regarding the dispute between the UAE and Iran over the three islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa, the ministers reiterated their support for the UAE’s call to reach a peaceful solution through bilateral negotiations or the International Court of Justice. This demonstrates their commitment to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and in accordance with international law.
Importance of Kuwait-Iraq Border Demarcation
The ministers stressed the importance of Iraq’s commitment to Kuwait’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as respect for international conventions and UN resolutions. Specifically, they referred to UNSC Resolution 833 regarding the demarcation of the Kuwait-Iraq boundary. This highlights the significance of upholding international agreements and ensuring the stability of borders between neighboring countries.
In conclusion, the joint statement issued by Gulf states and the US reflects their support for diplomatic engagement with Iran and their commitment to regional de-escalation. The ministers emphasized the importance of adhering to international law and ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security. They also called on Iran to cease the proliferation of dangerous weapons and expressed their efforts towards resolving conflicts in Yemen and achieving peace in the Middle East. Additionally, they reiterated their support for a peaceful solution to the UAE-Iran island dispute and stressed the importance of demarcating the Kuwait-Iraq border. These collective efforts demonstrate a commitment to maintaining stability, promoting peace, and resolving conflicts through diplomatic means.