The 45th Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, held in Kuwait on December 1, concluded with the Kuwait Declaration, emphasizing urgent action to end the Gaza conflict and reaffirming support for Palestinian sovereignty. The declaration called for an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, encompassing territories occupied since June 1967.

In response to ongoing regional tensions, GCC leaders strongly condemned Israel’s military actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank, including violations at Jerusalem’s holy sites. They praised Qatar’s mediation efforts in securing ceasefire agreements and facilitating detainee exchanges. The leaders expressed particular concern about Israeli aggression in Lebanon, warning of potential regional escalation and calling for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Beyond regional security, the summit highlighted the GCC’s expanding role in addressing global challenges. Leaders emphasized the region’s growing prominence as a business and economic hub, focusing on sustainable economic diversification and digital transformation. The declaration outlined ambitious plans for developing unified digital markets, advancing e-commerce, and strengthening cybersecurity cooperation among member states.

The summit also acknowledged the importance of strategic investments in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, positioning the GCC at the forefront of global digital innovation. Leaders emphasized the need to balance technological advancement with environmental and social sustainability while maintaining the region’s cultural identity and Islamic values.

The declaration concluded by reaffirming the GCC’s commitment to peaceful diplomacy, state sovereignty, and international law, while emphasizing the crucial role of women’s empowerment and youth engagement in the region’s future development.