GCC and EU Issue Joint Statement on Iran
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) issued a joint statement today emphasizing the importance of adhering too international laws, including the United Nations Charter, respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, and refraining from the use or threat of force.
The declaration, reported by webangah News Agency citing Mehr News Agency and the EU website, did not reference the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018 or Europe’s shortcomings in fulfilling commitments toward Tehran. It noted that sanctions and UN nuclear-related restrictions previously lifted have been reinstated against iran. Despite intense diplomatic efforts-with involvement from three European countries and numerous international partners during recent UN General Assembly sessions-conditions were not met to extend UN Security Council Resolution 2231.
The GCC-EU joint council stressed that resuming sanctions does not mark an end to diplomatic engagement with Iran.the shared position is that only sustained political and diplomatic efforts can lead to a lasting solution regarding Iran’s nuclear issue. The council also acknowledged Oman’s positive role in facilitating dialog among relevant parties along with continuing European initiatives.
The statement further underlined the critical need to fully restore cooperation between Iran and the international Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It called on Iran to resume compliance with its legally binding safeguards obligations as a means of building trust while enhancing regional and global security and stability.
