GCC unveils concrete plans to boost military and intelligence cooperation among members
In response to Israel’s September 9 airstrike on Doha, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has unveiled concrete plans to bolster military and intelligence cooperation among its member states. The announcement follows the recent emergency Arab-Islamic summit, where leaders condemned Israel's actions and reaffirmed their commitment to Palestinian protection and the denormalization of relations with Israel.
The airstrike, which targeted Hamas leaders in Qatar, was met with strong reactions, with Arab and Islamic nations calling for unified action to defend sovereignty and push for a Gaza ceasefire.
Yesterday, GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Ql-Budaiwi outlined a series of steps to activate joint defense mechanisms and enhance deterrence capabilities in the region. These measures are seen as a direct response to Israel’s aggression and a move to strengthen the collective security of the GCC states.
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The five key initiatives include:
1. Enhanced Intelligence Sharing: Increased exchange of intelligence information through the Unified Military Command.
2. Improved Air Surveillance: Transmission of air situation data to all operational centers within GCC states.
3. Missile Defense Readiness: Accelerating the work of the Gulf Joint Task Force for the Early Warning System against ballistic missiles.
4. Updated Defense Plans: Updating joint defense strategies in coordination with the GCC’s Operation and Training Committee.
5. Joint Military Exercises: Conducting exercises between air operation centers and air defense forces within the next three months, culminating in a full-scale joint air exercise.
Previous GCC Military Cooperation
While joint defense initiatives are outlined in existing GCC agreements, this is the first time such measures have been formally invoked. Under these agreements, joint military action is required in the face of external threats. Therefore, the steps outlined by Ql-Budaiwi mark a significant shift in the GCC's approach to regional security.
Historically, military cooperation within the GCC has been limited to coordination on matters like intelligence sharing and disaster relief, with little emphasis on coordinated defense operations. The recent steps indicate a serious commitment to a unified defense strategy.
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Challenges and Divisions Within the GCC
Despite this unified gesture, there is notable reluctance from some GCC members, particularly the UAE, Bahrain, and Oman, who have not fully embraced these proposals. In contrast, countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait are more resolute in their commitment to strengthening the alliance.
Mehram Kamrava, a professor of government at Georgetown University in Qatar, highlighted the influence of U.S. troops and diplomatic involvement in the region, suggesting that this could limit the GCC’s ability to act independently. He argued that while the recent measures may appear significant, they might ultimately be more symbolic than operational.
The future effectiveness of the GCC’s military cooperation remains uncertain, with speculation surrounding the true motivations of the Gulf powers and their long-term priorities in the region. What is clear, however, is the sentiment that "an attack against one of us is an attack against all," signaling a potential shift in regional dynamics—but whether these actions will lead to lasting change or remain largely symbolic is yet to be seen.
Source: https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/