On Friday, Iran criticized a joint statement by the United States and the Gulf Cooperation Council, calling it “interventionist, irresponsible, and provocative.” Iran further claimed that the US military presence in the Gulf undermines security and fosters division in the region.
In a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Iran reiterated its stance that the Strait of Hormuz should be managed in coordination with Oman, the neighboring state, and in line with a memorandum of understanding signed with the US.
The final statement from the joint ministerial meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and the US, held in Manama the previous day, reaffirmed the strategic partnership among these nations, with Washington renewing its unwavering commitment to Gulf security.
The statement welcomed the US-Iran memorandum of understanding signed on June 17 and praised the mediation efforts by Pakistan and Qatar, stressing ongoing negotiations towards a permanent agreement.
It emphasized the shared goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and highlighted the need to address all Iranian threats, including ballistic missiles, drones, and support for armed groups.
The statement underlined the importance of maintaining momentum in negotiations aimed at ending hostilities and preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, clarifying that any investment or business activity with Tehran will remain contingent upon its adherence to the memorandum and reaching a final agreement.
Regarding Lebanon, the statement reiterated the commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, welcoming ongoing US-brokered negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, while stressing the need to keep the talks separate from other regional disputes.
It asserted that true Lebanese sovereignty cannot be achieved as long as non-governmental groups with military capabilities operate outside state control, calling for disarmament of these groups and concentrating weapons solely in the hands of the state, along with continued support for the Lebanese Armed Forces to enhance their capabilities.
In relation to Gaza, the statement emphasized that no Palestinian will be forced to leave the sector, asserting that any individual who chooses to leave will maintain the freedom to return, opposing any forced displacement.
The statement called for ongoing efforts to end the conflict, alleviate humanitarian suffering, and support political pathways leading to lasting stability.
On the Syrian dossier, it reaffirmed the continued support for the Syrian government’s efforts to combat terrorism and restore essential services, contributing to enhanced stability.
Additionally, the statement stressed the significance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz for unrestricted maritime navigation, considering free navigation a fundamental pillar of regional security, global economic stability, and the uninterrupted flow of international trade and energy supplies.