Gulf Tensions: Arab leaders say Iran is fueling regional violence

World
Europe

02:09

At an emergency summit in Saudi Arabia, Arab leaders say Iran is responsible for fueling violence and supporting militias in the region. They also condemned the recent attacks by Yemen's Houthi Rebels on oil pipelines and vessels near the UAE's Al-Fujairah port. Iraq was the only country to voice its rejection to the summit's resolution. Our correspondent Adel EL Mahrouky has more.

One by one, Saudi Arabia welcomed Islamic heads of states with a presentation at the airport. A display of drones and missiles with labels indicating they're made in Iran, The kingdom was lobbying for support before the summits began. The first was a Gulf Cooperation Council emergency meeting.

SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ SAUDI KING "Not taking a decisive and firm stance against the destructive activities of the Iranian regime in the region, is what lead to the escalations we see. We ask the international community to take all measures to stop Iran from interfering in domestic affairs and sponsoring terror activities."

A bigger summit followed which included the rest of the Arab world. All heads of states condemned recent attacks against Saudi oil pipelines and vessels. Few countries refused to join the aggressive criticism.

BARHAM SALIH IRAQI PRESIDENT "We, in Iraq, are keen on the security of the Saudi Kingdom and the Gulf, targeting their security is targeting ours. Iran is a neighbor Islamic country, definitely we do not wish that its security gets threatened. Iraq will work towards open, direct and constructive dialogue, to reject violence and war, until we pass this crisis."

ADEL EL MAHROUKY MECCA, SAUDI ARABIA "10 resolutions Arabs leaders have reached, all against Iran. They've accused it of interfering in domestic affairs and threatening regional peace by supporting militias and terrorist organization. Iraq was the only nation to voice its rejection against the statement. AMA, CGTN, MECCA, SA."