Gulf Council praises better Iran ties, asks for land dispute solution

The Gulf Council praised steps to mend ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran. This came after a meeting of council ministers.

The group includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and the UAE. They welcomed new ambassadors as a positive sign.

Yet, the council asked Iran to solve disputes over certain islands. These islands are near the Strait of Hormuz.

The UAE says these lands are theirs. Iran has controlled them since 1971. The council called Iranian actions on these lands void.

They urged talks to settle the issue. The council also spoke about the Al Dorra gas field. Both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait claim this field.

They rejected Iran’s plans to develop it without agreement.

Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia and Iran started to fix their diplomatic relations. China helped mediate this process.

This has lowered tension between the Arab countries and Iran. However, the council still accuses Iran of meddling and supporting armed groups.

In short, the Gulf Council hailed the diplomatic progress but wants land issues solved.

They stressed the need for mutual respect and common goals.

Context

The Gulf Council is a regional alliance formed in 1981. It aims to promote economic and military cooperation.

Its creation came amid the backdrop of the Iran-Iraq War. The council has often been skeptical of Iran.

Relations have been tense due to religious and geopolitical reasons.

Saudi Arabia and Iran are major powers in the region. They follow different branches of Islam.

Saudi Arabia is mainly Sunni, and Iran is Shia. This difference often fuels regional conflicts.

The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway. It connects the Gulf of Oman to the Persian Gulf. Around 20% of the world’s oil passes through it.

Control of nearby islands is strategically important. Both sides have long claimed various islands, making it a hot-button issue.

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