GCC Calls On Iraq To Withdraw UN Map Rejected By Kuwait

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Kuwait contends that the newly submitted coordinates encroach on its maritime sovereignty and its fixed water elevations, which were never the subject of any dispute with Iraq

** PUBLISHED:** Tue 24 Feb 2026, 11:56 AM

By:

Salma El Omla

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The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has issued a statement regarding the ongoing maritime border dispute between the State of Kuwait and the Republic of Ira.

The dispute resurfaced after Iraq submitted maps to the United Nations Secretary-General on January 19 and February 9, outlining the coordinates of its territorial sea baselines and maritime zones“in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)".

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Kuwait contends that the newly submitted coordinates encroach on its maritime sovereignty and its fixed water elevations, which were never the subject of any dispute with Iraq.

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In response, Gulf countries including the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain have voiced their support for Kuwait.

In his statement, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), urged the Republic of Iraq to withdraw the list of coordinates and map submitted to the United Nations, which include claims over maritime areas.

He stressed that these submissions encroach on the State of Kuwait’s sovereignty, particularly over its maritime zones and shoals such as Fasht Al Qaid and Fasht Al A’aij.

He emphasised the need to adhere to international law and the principles of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in full alignment with the understandings, agreements, and bilateral memoranda of understanding concluded between the two countries in addressing such matters.

Albudaiwi reaffirmed the GCC Supreme Council’s stance, as reflected in the Final Statement of its 46th session, reiterating the Council’s firm position on Iraq’s respect for Kuwait’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The GCC, he noted, categorically rejects any violations of Kuwait’s sovereignty over its lands, islands, and associated shoals, as well as its entire maritime zone, and underscores the need to uphold bilateral and international agreements and all relevant UN resolutions.

“The GCC and the Republic of Iraq are bound by deep-rooted historical relations and close ties based on mutual respect and good neighbourliness,” he said, adding that such claims undermine efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two sides.

He concluded by expressing hope that Iraq would review and withdraw its submitted list of coordinates and the map to the UN, a step that would help reinforce mutual trust, promote stability, and reaffirm commitment to relevant legal and international principles.​

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