Baghdad: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan have expressed their support for Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zubaidi's decision to limit the possession of weapons exclusively to the state. This decision was announced on Thursday and has been welcomed by regional leaders.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a joint statement was released by the GCC states and Jordan, condemning the aggressive actions of Iran and its allies towards their territories. They referenced the consistent positions of the GCC Ministerial Council, the Council of Foreign Ministers of the League of Arab States, international law, and UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026) in their condemnation.

The statement highlighted that since February 28, 2026, following a Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, attacks on their territories, citizens, and civilian infrastructure have been incessant. The aggression has intensified, particularly affecting Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, targeting energy facilities, desalination plants, ports, airports, and other civilian sites.

The GCC and Jordan emphasized that these attacks are clear violations of the UN Charter, international law, and UN Security Council resolutions. They reiterated their right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter and pledged to take necessary measures to protect their sovereignty and vital infrastructure.

The statement also praised the Iraqi Prime Minister's initiative to impose state control over weapons by September 30, 2026, supporting Iraq's efforts to prevent hostile actions against regional countries. They called for the UN Security Council to demand an immediate halt to Iranian attacks and to consider further actions if these threats persist.

Additionally, the statement reinforced their commitment to the freedom and safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, aiming to maintain regional security and stability. They expressed readiness to collaborate with regional countries and the International Maritime Organization to establish permanent arrangements aligned with international law.

The statement concluded by expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia, supporting its measures to maintain sovereignty and stability, and appreciating the diplomatic efforts by Saudi Arabia and Oman to resolve the Yemeni crisis through political solutions and humanitarian support.