Riyadh: Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi affirmed that the unity of the Gulf position is a source of strength for GCC countries, noting that the extraordinary meeting of GCC Ministers of Information reflects the shared awareness of the vital role played by Gulf media at this stage. He emphasized the importance of mobilizing and coordinating Gulf media capabilities and presenting a professional and responsible media discourse that embodies the positions of GCC states and counters attempts at distortion and misinformation.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Albudaiwi made the remarks during his address yesterday at the extraordinary meeting of GCC Ministers of Information, held via videoconference and chaired by Bahrain's Minister of Information Dr. Ramzan bin Abdullah Al Noaimi, the current session's chair, with the participation of GCC information ministers.
He stated that the meeting comes amid serious developments in the region resulting from the aggressive Iranian military escalation targeting GCC states, describing it as a blatant violation of their sovereignty and a direct threat to their security, stability, and the safety of their peoples. He stressed that the situation requires a unified and firm stance at all levels, including enhanced joint media coordination and cooperation as the most effective way to address the challenges. He added that Gulf media is required more than ever to rise to this responsibility by strengthening public awareness, reinforcing trust, and supporting the efforts of GCC leaders to preserve the security and stability of the region.
Albudaiwi noted that in such circumstances, the role of media goes beyond reporting events to serving as the first line of defense against disinformation campaigns, confronting misleading information, and revealing the facts to regional and international public opinion in a manner that reflects the just position of GCC states and their constant commitment to the principles of international law, respect for the sovereignty of states, and good-neighborly relations. He expressed hope that the meeting would result in a unified vision and framework to enhance joint Gulf media work, develop practical mechanisms to address misleading media campaigns, and leverage both traditional and digital media platforms to clearly and credibly convey the voice of GCC countries to the world.
During the meeting, GCC information ministers strongly condemned the criminal Iranian attacks targeting GCC states and the unprecedented, dangerous assaults that struck civilian objects, vital facilities, infrastructure, residential areas, and private property. They described the attacks as a grave and blatant violation of international law, international humanitarian law, and the Charter of the United Nations, posing a direct threat to the security and stability of the region and the safety of its peoples.
They affirmed that GCC states reserve their legal right to respond in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which guarantees the right of self-defense, individually and collectively, in the event of armed aggression. They also stressed the adoption of all necessary measures to safeguard their sovereignty, security, and stability, expressing deep pride and appreciation for the armed forces of GCC states for defending the security of their countries, protecting their sovereignty, and confronting the aggression. They further praised the pivotal role of security agencies and competent authorities in taking the necessary measures to strengthen the security and stability system, ensure the safety of citizens and residents, and protect vital facilities and infrastructure.