The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) leaders and heads of state called on Sunday for an immediate halt to war crimes in Gaza, the displacement of residents, and the end of Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. The Gulf summit reiterated its unwavering support for the Palestinian people's right to sovereignty over all territories occupied since June 1967 and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. In the Kuwait Declaration, issued at the conclusion of the 45th GCC Supreme Council session hosted by Kuwait, leaders praised the growing role of GCC states in addressing regional and global political, security, and economic challenges. They highlighted the council's contributions to resolving issues threatening peace, security, and stability, as well as to foster international dialogue and collaboration. The declaration urged member states to intensify efforts to enhance the region's status as a global hub for business and economy while continuing sustainable economic diversification, digital transformation, energy market stability, and climate action. The leaders condemned the ongoing Israeli aggression against Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank, as well as violations in Jerusalem and at Islamic and Christian holy sites. They demanded an end to civilian massacres, collective punishment, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including health facilities, schools, and places of worship. The council called for urgent intervention to protect civilians, end the war, and facilitate serious negotiations for sustainable solutions. The GCC reaffirmed its stance on supporting Palestinian sovereignty, implementing a two-state solution, and ensuring refugees' rights in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and international resolutions. The leaders welcomed outcomes from the extraordinary Arab-Islamic summit hosted by Saudi Arabia on November 11, which aimed to rally international action for a lasting peace in Gaza and recognition of Palestinian statehood. The declaration also commended Qatar's mediation efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and prisoner exchanges, while condemning continued Israeli aggression in Lebanon. The council supported the temporary ceasefire in Lebanon and expressed hope for broader peace, Israeli withdrawal, and the return of displaced Lebanese under UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The leaders welcomed Saudi Arabia and Oman's continued efforts to revive the political process in Yemen, emphasizing dialogue and diplomacy as the GCC's cornerstone approach to resolving disputes. They reaffirmed commitment to international law and the UN Charter, advocating respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-aggression. The declaration emphasized the strategic importance of the digital economy in driving regional development and integration. GCC leaders highlighted the region's advanced digital infrastructure, including 5G networks, data centers, and cybersecurity frameworks, which position it as a global digital economy hub. The council called for enhanced cooperation in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, to accelerate digital innovation in energy, healthcare, education, transportation, and finance. Leaders also urged swift progress on establishing unified digital markets to boost economic integration and competitiveness on a global scale. The GCC pledged to continue its contributions to global economic growth and innovation while addressing pressing challenges such as climate change and sustainable development. Leaders emphasized balancing economic and technological advancements with environmental and social sustainability. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering economic diversification, empowering Gulf women, promoting youth participation, and preserving the region's cultural and historical heritage. They stressed that their shared vision for a digital and sustainable future underscores the GCC's dedication to prosperity for its people and the world.
