EU, Gulf leaders call for immediate ceasefire amid continuous Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, Lebanon

EU and Gulf leaders have voiced serious concerns over rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza and Lebanon, urging an immediate ceasefire.

Following the first summit between the European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE – a joint statement was released on Tuesday calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, the exchange of Palestinian prisoners, and unrestricted humanitarian access to civilians.

The statement reaffirmed a commitment to the two-state solution, advocating for Israel and Palestine to coexist peacefully along the 1967 borders.

Leaders also expressed alarm over escalating violence in Lebanon and reiterated the need for a ceasefire, according to Xinhua news agency.

Both sides pledged to enhance global and regional security by preventing conflicts, resolving crises, and strengthening dialogue and cooperation. They also agreed to increase trade, investment, energy cooperation, and climate action, while boosting connectivity between the regions.

Additionally, they emphasised the urgency of achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine, aligned with UN principles.

The summit concluded with plans for biennial meetings, with the next one set for Saudi Arabia in 2026.