Kuwait, December 26 (QNA) – The GCC Ministerial Council, in its 46th Extraordinary Meeting in Kuwait City, called on all Syrian factions to prioritize national unity and engage in inclusive dialogue to achieve security, stability, and prosperity.

The Council condemned repeated Israeli attacks on Syria, including the occupation of the demilitarized zone, urging the international community to ensure Israel’s withdrawal from all occupied Syrian territories, including the Golan Heights. It reaffirmed the Golan Heights as Syrian Arab land and denounced Israeli settlement expansions as violations of international law and UN resolutions.

The Council emphasized Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, rejecting foreign interference. It supported the UN Secretary-General’s proposal for a mission to oversee Syria’s transitional process and stressed adherence to UN principles, including non-interference and peaceful conflict resolution. The Council also endorsed the Arab Ministerial Contact Committee’s December 14 statement on supporting a Syrian-led political process and facilitating the safe return of refugees.

Calling for economic empowerment in Syria, the GCC urged lifting sanctions and providing humanitarian assistance to the Syrian people.

On Lebanon, the Council reaffirmed support for its sovereignty and stability, emphasizing the need for political and economic reforms to resolve its crises. It condemned Israeli aggressions and called for implementing Security Council Resolution 1701 and the Taif Agreement to restore stability. The Council backed efforts to strengthen Lebanon’s army and security forces and urged timely presidential elections.

Regarding Gaza, the Council reiterated unwavering support for the Palestinian people, emphasizing the need for a permanent ceasefire, lifting the siege, opening crossings, and ensuring humanitarian aid delivery. It also commended Qatari-Egyptian-American mediation efforts for hostages and detainees.