GCC information ministers call for legal action over media violations
Gulf Cooperation Council information ministers urged closer monitoring of media and digital platforms and legal action against those responsible for violations, while reaffirming their commitment to Gulf unity. The statement came at their 29th meeting in Manama, Bahrain, on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
Mariam Al Mansoori
National authorities to handle violations
The ministers called for stepped-up efforts to identify and document violations in media outlets and on digital platforms. Each country's competent authorities would pursue accountability under national rules and applicable GCC decisions and regulations, following that country's procedures.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the ministers firmly rejected attempts to weaken Gulf unity or cause offense to member states, their symbols or their peoples. They described solidarity among the countries, their leaders and their populations as central to protecting regional security, stability and Gulf achievements.
The ministers called Gulf unity "a shared responsibility and a steadfast commitment among our states." They said that commitment had become more important amid current circumstances and the need to address challenges and their repercussions.
Their appeal extended to media organizations, journalists and social media users: act responsibly, check accuracy, rely on official sources and refrain from sharing offensive or misleading material. They also urged a collective effort during this sensitive period to protect unity, strengthen ties among Gulf peoples and support their security and stability.
Regional escalation
The appeal came against a backdrop of regional escalation. In an October 18, 2026, statement reported by the GCC General Secretariat, Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said Iranian attacks on GCC countries since February 28, 2026, had involved more than 7,000 ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Albudaiwi also cited Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including the October 10, 2026, strike on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. He said that attack killed 12 people and injured more than 300.
Media cooperation and 2027 programs
Qatar News Agency reported that Albudaiwi attended the Manama meeting. Qatar's delegation was headed by Sheikh Hamad bin Thamer Al-Thani, chairman of Qatar Media Corporation.
The ministers reviewed initiatives within the Joint GCC Media Cooperation Strategic Plan 2023–2030. Its scope includes international and digital media, news agencies, radio and television. They also discussed common guidelines and standards for Gulf media content, along with organizing a joint media forum with Egypt.
A Qatar Media Corporation proposal would offer training programs and media workshops to university students across GCC countries as part of Doha Arab Media Capital 2027. Participants considered that proposal and approved the 2027 budgets for the Joint Program Production Institution and the Gulf Radio and Television Corporation.
