Gulf states prioritise air defence amid Bahrain summit

The Gulf states are intent on finalising a joint defensive air shield “in the near future”, as stated by GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) Secretary General Jasem Al Budaiwi, The National reported on December 2nd. 

The 46th Gulf Cooperation Council summit took place in Bahrain. Al Budaiwi stated, the meeting is “extremely important” in light of the unprecedented attacks on Qatar by Iran and Israel earlier this year. 

Al Budaiwi noted the unified response to these attacks displayed the bloc’s unity, adding that  “we are one voice and one position” and “our foreign policy is unified”.

He also proclaimed the focus of the GCC on its regional air defence network, stating: “What matters most, and what we hope to complete, is the joint defence shield that we are working on with our partners. There are technical matters involved, but God willing, we will reach this goal in the near future.”

The importance of the summit was highlighted by the GCC Secretary General due to the “completely different phase” the Middle East has entered over the past year. This has been defined by the Gaza ceasefire, the Iran–Israel war and the attacks on Qatar.

In the first attack on Qatar, an Iranian missile strike targeted Al Udeid US base. This was followed by an Israeli strike on a Hamas meeting in Doha. Following attacks on its territory, Qatar aimed to boost external security, declaring an expanded defence deal with the US.

Al Budaiwi also made a mention of regional energy integration, such as supplying electricity to Arab nations facing shortages. This will kickstart electricity exports to Iraq with an initial 500 megawatts, rising to 2,000. 

The bloc is also finalising trade deals with New Zealand and South Korea in attempts to diversify global partnerships. This year’s summit carries added diplomatic weight, with Oman’s Sultan Haitham being the first Omani Sultan to attend since 2011.

The National, Maghrebi.org