Abu dhabi: An emergency assembly of Arab foreign ministers has denounced recent Iranian attacks on Arab states, labeling them a severe breach of sovereignty and a threat to regional peace and stability. The urgent meeting, conducted via video conference and led by the United Arab Emirates, resulted in a resolution that characterized these assaults as "cowardly," "illegal," and "unprovoked."
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Arab ministers expressed strong disapproval of Iran's deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, including airports, ports, energy facilities, and residential areas, which resulted in civilian casualties and significant property damage. The attacks were deemed a blatant violation of international law, endangering civilian lives and compromising regional security.
The Arab League Council reiterated its steadfast support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the affected states and endorsed all measures taken by these nations to safeguard their security and citizens. The ministers emphasized their rejection of these assaults and expressed full solidarity with the targeted countries.
Moreover, the Council referenced the Charter of the League of Arab States and the Joint Arab Defense Treaty, underscoring that any aggression against a member state constitutes a direct attack on the entire Arab community. It also upheld the right of the targeted states to self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter and lauded the defense efforts that mitigated the impact of the attacks.
The resolution advocated for the Arab states' right to seek recourse through the United Nations Security Council and General Assembly to pass resolutions condemning the attacks and holding Iran accountable. The Council urged the Security Council to issue a binding resolution demanding an immediate cessation of Iranian hostilities and to hold Iran responsible for its actions.
Additionally, the Council emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and trade, condemning any Iranian efforts to obstruct the Strait of Hormuz or disrupt maritime activities in Bab el-Mandeb, highlighting the potential threat to the global economy and international peace.