Image Source aljazeera
Doha, September 16, 2025 — In a landmark show of regional solidarity, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) announced the activation of its joint defence mechanism following what it described as an “unprovoked and unacceptable” Israeli attack on Qatar. The declaration came at the conclusion of an emergency summit in Doha, where Gulf leaders unanimously condemned Israel’s actions and pledged collective measures to safeguard member states.
A Strong United Front
The summit, attended by heads of state and defence ministers from all six GCC nations—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman—marked one of the bloc’s most decisive responses in recent years. The final communiqué, dubbed the Doha Declaration, reaffirmed the GCC’s principle of mutual defence, vowing that “an attack on one is an attack on all.”
Qatar, which bore the brunt of the Israeli strike, received sweeping assurances of military, political, and humanitarian support from its Gulf neighbors.
Israel in the Crosshairs of GCC Condemnation
Leaders denounced Israel’s escalation as a violation of international law and regional stability. The GCC called on the United Nations Security Council and the wider international community to hold Israel accountable, while also demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani stated during the summit:
“This aggression is not only against Qatar, but against the security and dignity of the entire Gulf. Our response will be collective, measured, and resolute.”
Defence Mechanism Activation
For the first time since its establishment in 1981, the GCC officially moved to operationalize its Joint Defence Agreement. This includes enhanced military coordination, intelligence-sharing, and rapid deployment protocols in the event of further attacks.
Defence analysts note that the activation signals a serious shift in Gulf security posture, transforming the council from a primarily economic-political bloc into a more assertive defence coalition.
International Reactions
The GCC’s move has drawn global attention. Washington and Brussels urged restraint but expressed concern over Israel’s actions, while regional powers like Turkey and Iran welcomed the GCC’s firm stance. The United Nations Secretary-General called for “urgent de-escalation” to prevent a wider regional conflict.
A Turning Point for GCC?
The Doha Declaration may well redefine the GCC’s role in the Middle East. While historically divided on foreign policy, the Gulf states now appear to be moving toward greater unity in the face of external threats. Analysts suggest that the crisis could cement a stronger defence identity for the bloc, especially as geopolitical tensions in the region intensify.
[Newsroom staff written original, where key claims or facts are used, I’ve referenced the original sources (like Al Jazeera, Reuters, AP News etc.) transparently.]
