GCC, Muslim World League, Arab States Condemn Iran-Backed Drone Attacks on Saudi Oil Facilities
On 29 July 2026, a chorus of Arab leaders rose in unison to denounce a fresh wave of drone strikes on Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure in the Eastern Province.
The Muslim World League (MWL), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and several Arab states issued a joint statement condemning the attacks, which were launched from Iraq by Iran‑affiliated militias. The communique reaffirmed solidarity with the Kingdom and support for measures it takes to safeguard its sovereignty, security and stability.
MWL Secretary‑General Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al‑Issa called the attacks “treacherous criminal acts” that violate religious values and international and humanitarian laws. In a statement released by the MWL’s global councils, Al‑Issa reaffirmed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for all measures the Kingdom takes to deter aggressors, safeguard its security and protect its citizens.
GCC Secretary‑General Jasem Al‑budaiwi described the drone strikes as a dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of Saudi sovereignty. He warned that the continued attacks undermine international efforts to de‑escalate tensions and consolidate security and stability in the region, and reaffirmed the GCC’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia.
Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry issued a separate condemnation, labeling the drone attacks a dangerous escalation that threatens regional security and stability, a violation of good neighbourliness and international law, and a challenge to UN Security Council Resolution 2817. The ministry called for the swift implementation of the Iraqi government’s decision to place all weapons under state control and urged the UN Security Council to adopt an urgent resolution condemning the attacks, demanding their immediate cessation, and protecting freedom of navigation and global energy supplies.
Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry likewise condemned the attacks, stating they reflected the militias’ determination to continue escalating tensions and undermining regional security. The ministry described the drone attack as a flagrant violation of Saudi sovereignty and a threat to its territorial integrity, and reaffirmed Kuwait’s absolute solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for all measures the Kingdom takes to protect its security, including its right to self‑defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attacks as a flagrant violation of Saudi sovereignty and a threat to the Kingdom’s security, stability and territorial integrity, and a breach of international law. Qatar reaffirmed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and support for all legitimate measures the Kingdom takes to safeguard its sovereignty.
Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the targeting of Saudi oil facilities and attacks on Jordan, calling them unacceptable assaults on state sovereignty and vital facilities, a violation of international law, and a dangerous escalation threatening regional security and global energy stability. The ministry reaffirmed Egypt’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and Jordan and its support for measures taken by both countries to preserve their security and sovereignty.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense reported that its air‑defence systems intercepted and destroyed several drones launched from Iraqi territory and aimed at petroleum facilities in the Eastern Province. The interceptions prevented the drones from reaching their intended targets, protecting civilians and critical infrastructure.
The attacks are part of a broader pattern of hostility that has emerged since the 2026 Iran war, in which Iranian‑backed militias in Iraq have targeted Saudi infrastructure. Saudi Arabia has responded with airstrikes on militia positions in Iraq and has intensified security measures around its oil facilities.
The coordinated condemnation by the GCC and Arab states underscores the fragility of Gulf security and the importance of collective defence. It also signals a unified front against Iranian influence and militias, while highlighting the potential impact of such attacks on global oil markets and energy stability.
The joint statements demonstrate regional solidarity and a commitment to uphold sovereignty and security. Saudi Arabia continues to defend its facilities and coordinate with allies, while urging international bodies to take action to prevent further escalation.
