The European Union and the Gulf Cooperation Council called on Thursday for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis in the Middle East, while reiterating that Gulf countries have the right to defend themselves against Iran.For all the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.“The ministers reiterated their commitment to regional stability and called for protection of civilians and full respect of international law,” the EU and GCC said in a joint statement issued after a videoconference of European and Gulf foreign ministers.“The ministers reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to dialogue and diplomacy as means to resolve the crisis,” they said, adding that they agreed on “joint diplomatic efforts to bring about a lasting solution” to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and “ultimately allow the Iranian people to determine their future.”Read more: Iran military says combat drones attacked US site in Kuwait