"Some GCC members have even raised the suggestion that Iran send an
observer to the GCC summit," a GCC source said. "This has enraged several
members, particularly Saudi Arabia."
The sources said Saudi Arabia has pressed Oman to prevent an invitation
to any Iranian representative to the summit. At the same time, Al Attiyah
said he would visit Teheran to discuss regional security and the GCC summit
with Iranian leaders.
The division within the GCC has harmed efforts to enhance security and
military cooperation. On Oct. 21, GCC chiefs of staff concluded a two-day
meeting in Qatar to review military cooperation plans, including the revival
of its regional Peninsula Shield military force.
"This [meeting] was positive and successful," Qatari Chief of Staff Maj.
Gen. Hamad Bin Ali Attiyah said.
Still, GCC militaries have preferred cooperation with Western allies,
including Britain, France and the United States. The UAE has invited France
to establish a military presence while Bahrain and Kuwait have enhanced
cooperation with NATO and the United States.
On Oct. 21, Bahrain, who has joined a U.S.-led regional naval task
force, hosted a naval security conference organized by the U.S. Fifth Fleet.
The conference included representatives from Bahrain, Britain, Kuwait,
Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
"The meeting will help the Royal Navy of Bahrain strengthen its ability
to respond to sea safety and security incidents and events," Bahraini Deputy
Defense Minister Mohammed Bin Abdullah said.
