Saudi Gazette report

MANAMA — Senior Gulf official confirmed this week that progress continues on establishing a joint defensive shield for GCC states in coordination with the United States, with technical discussions ongoing and further details expected once preparations are complete.

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi said during a press conference on Wednesday that Gulf countries are working closely with “allies abroad” to advance the project, describing it as “very important” and expressing optimism that it could be achieved “in the near future.”

He noted that the initiative, often referred to as the joint Gulf missile defense shield, still involves “many technical aspects,” but remains a top priority for collective security efforts.

Al-Budaiwi also referenced the recent Iranian and Israeli attacks on Qatar, saying Gulf leaders convened an extraordinary summit immediately afterward and instructed defense ministers to hold an emergency meeting of the Joint Defense Council in Doha.

The aim, he said, was “to discuss the gaps and what we need to do to elevate our joint military work,” adding that defense ministers adopted five measures designed to strengthen coordination across the GCC’s military framework.

Al-Budaiwi reiterated that regular meetings are underway with the United States to finalize the defensive shield’s structure and operational mechanisms. He stressed that the project will form a central component of future regional defense cooperation.

In parallel, preparations are advancing for a large-scale joint Gulf military exercise scheduled for early 2027, with participation from GCC forces and several international and regional partners.

Al-Budaiwi said military cooperation among Gulf states continues to expand, and the Unified Military Command is working to enhance coordination across various defense domains.