📰 GCC leaders reaffirm support for Syria’s sovereignty at Bahrain summit

Manama, Dec. 3 (SANA) The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Wednesday reiterated its call for respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, while rejecting foreign interference in its internal affairs. Furthermore, the statement came at the conclusion of the bloc’s 46th summit held in Sakhir Palace in Manama. In the summit’s final statement, titled the “Sakhir Declaration,” GCC leaders condemned Israel’s recurrent attacks on Syrian territory, describing them as a severe violation of the UN Charter, international law and relevant Security Council resolutions. The Council stressed that Syria’s security and stability constitute a fundamental pillar of regional security.

The leaders reaffirmed that the occupied Syrian Golan is Arab land, denouncing Israeli settlement expansion and latest armed forces incursions in multiple villages in the area. They urged the UN Security Council and the international community to assume their legal and moral responsibilities to halt Israeli aggression and ensure Israel’s full withdrawal from all occupied Syrian territories. The statement also condemned all acts of hostility inside Syria, voicing backing for measures taken by the Syrian administration to strengthen security and stability. It welcomed Syria’s announcement of a roadmap to address the crisis in Sweida Province, praising efforts by Jordan and the United States in this regard. GCC leaders called on all Syrian parties to prioritize dialogue, reject division, and reinforce national cohesion to advance the process of rebuilding the Syrian state.

The statement highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efforts to ease sanctions on Syria and praised U. S. leader Donald Trump’s response to Riyadh’s request, a move the GCC stated would bolster public confidence, backing economic recovery, and preserve national unity. It also commended the United Arab Emirates for its economic support to Syria. Additionally, the GCC renewed its support for UN efforts to assist Syrian relocated persons and internally relocated persons, emphasizing the importance of ensuring their voluntary and safe return in accordance with international standards. It rejected any attempts to impose demographic changes in the country.

Regional Issues On Gaza, the summit backed the outcomes of the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit and called for full adherence to the ceasefire agreement in the enclave. It stressed the urgency of facilitating relief aid delivery and reconstruction efforts. The leaders reaffirmed the necessity of establishing an independent and sovereign Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with the two-state solution. GCC Affairs and Regional Security The statement expressed satisfaction with progress…