ECOWAS Urges Restraint Amid Escalating Gulf Hostilities

ECOWAS Urges Restraint Amid Escalating Gulf Hostilities

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), under the chairmanship of Julius Maada Bio, has issued a strong call for maximum restraint in response to escalating hostilities in the Gulf region. This plea follows heightened military tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

In a formal statement released on 28 February 2026, ECOWAS formally aligned with the African Union Commission's stance, expressing profound concern regarding the intensification of military actions that carry the risk of widespread instability across the Middle East.

Reports indicate a surge in military exchanges, including alleged airstrikes and subsequent retaliatory missile and drone activities impacting various parts of the Gulf. This situation has generated serious apprehension regarding potential negative consequences for international peace and security, global energy markets, vital trade routes, and food supply chains, particularly for vulnerable regions like Africa.

ECOWAS emphasized that any further escalation could lead to profound global repercussions. Consequently, the regional body urgently called upon all involved parties to adhere strictly to the United Nations Charter and international law, specifically concerning the respect for national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

The regional bloc underscored the paramount importance of protecting civilian lives and critical infrastructure. It further advocated for renewed and vigorous diplomatic engagement within established international and regional frameworks to facilitate dialogue, de-escalate tensions, and reinstate stability.

Finally, ECOWAS reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to multilateralism and the principle of peaceful conflict resolution, fully endorsing the African Union’s position on this critical matter.