Gulf Cooperation Council issues warning on Gaza war expansion in region, Erdogan joins discussions
Leaders of six Arab countries and Turkey including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended The 44th meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) took place on Tuesday in Doha, Qatar, Tuesday.
Hosted by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, the leaders discussed recent regional developments, with a particular focus on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
In a joint statement released after the meeting, the GCC leaders condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza, expressing concern about the displacement of Palestinian civilians and the destruction of vital infrastructure.
They denounced these actions as clear violations of international laws and rights. Additionally, the leaders warned about the potential spread of the conflict to other areas in the Middle East and called for an immediate end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, urging Israel to return to negotiations for a two-state solution.
Erdogan, attending at Qatar's invitation, highlighted the significant trade ties between Turkey and GCC countries, reaching $23 billion.
Condemning Israel's attacks on Gaza, Erdogan accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of committing "war crimes against humanity" and endangering the entire region for political gain.
As Israeli forces continue their attacks in Gaza, the GCC leaders called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, expressing hope for a sustainable cessation of hostilities.
The statement also emphasized the need for international intervention to establish a ceasefire, rebuild the war-torn Gaza Strip, and end the "occupation of Palestinian land."
The GCC leaders underscored the potential risks of the conflict spreading further in the absence of decisive action and urged the international community to address the situation promptly.
