Key facts
- US and Gulf states issued a joint statement opposing the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza.
- The statement assured that any Palestinians wishing to leave Gaza would be free to return.
- Ministers backed US-facilitated talks between Israel and Lebanon.
- The statement rejected any tolls or attempts to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iran's foreign ministry called the US-GCC statement 'interventionist, irresponsible and provocative.'
- Iran reiterated its position on the governance of the Strait of Hormuz.
- The US-GCC statement condemned attacks by Iranian proxies in Iraq against GCC countries.
The United States and several Gulf states issued a joint statement emphasizing that Palestinians must not be forcibly displaced from Gaza, with assurances that any who wish to leave will be free to return. This declaration comes amid ongoing conflict and displacement within the enclave.
The statement also addressed broader regional security concerns, expressing support for US-facilitated negotiations between Israel and Lebanon and calling for the disarmament of non-state armed groups in Lebanon. Ministers also addressed Iran's nuclear ambitions, stating the country must not acquire a nuclear weapon and calling for action regarding its ballistic missiles, drones, and regional allies. Furthermore, the statement rejected any tolls, fees, or attempts to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz.