New York — The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Ministerial Council expressed its deep concern over the US Congress' approval of the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA), which is contrary to principles of international law, especially the principle of the sovereignty of states enshrined in the UN Charter. In a statement issued here on Sunday after a supplementary meeting of the 140th session of its Ministerial Council, the GCC stressed that it considers JASTA as inconsistent with foundations and principles of relations among states, and that the violation of these principles will have negative repercussions. The GCC Ministerial Council also expressed its absolute rejection of the continuation of Iranian interference in the internal affairs of GCC countries and the region. It called for full commitment to basic principles of good neighborliness, respect for states' sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs of other countries and non-use or threat of force. The Council condemned Iranian attempts to politicize Haj and exploit it to abuse the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It called on Iranian officials to refrain from such allegations, and cooperate with the Saudi official authorities responsible for organizing Haj to allow Iranian pilgrims to perform their rituals. The Council blamed the Iranian government for depriving its citizens from performing Haj this year. It reiterated that the Arab Coalition supporting the legitimacy in Yemen is the largest donor of humanitarian aid to Yemen. The GCC Council stressed its keenness on the unity, security and territorial integrity of Syria and Iraq. It strongly condemned the assassination threats against Saudi Ambassador to Iraq, and urged the Iraqi government to shoulder its responsibilities and fulfill its international obligations to protect diplomatic missions accredited to it.
