Key facts
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain to discuss Iran negotiations with Gulf Arab partners.
- Gulf countries expressed concerns about their security interests and the need to be informed throughout the Iran talks.
- Rubio assured Gulf allies that their views would be included and no decisions would undermine their prosperity or security.
- A joint statement from the U.S. and Gulf nations stressed unity on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and controlling the Strait of Hormuz.
- Gulf officials, including the GCC Secretary General and Bahrain's Foreign Minister, emphasized that any future agreements must safeguard their security and stability.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a three-day trip to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain, aiming to reassure Gulf Arab allies about American engagement in negotiations concerning Iran. The visit sought to address concerns that these nations might be excluded from discussions aimed at ending the conflict initiated by President Donald Trump and Israel on February 28, which had disrupted regional oil exports and led to Iranian retaliatory strikes.
Rubio stated that the United States would not make decisions or commitments that undermine the prosperity, stability, or security of its Gulf partners, emphasizing their desire to be informed at both technical and political levels of the negotiations. He affirmed that the relationship between the U.S. and its Gulf partners is "rock solid."
Following the meetings, a joint statement was released, highlighting agreement on preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons and opposing any Iranian attempts to control the Strait of Hormuz. The statement also welcomed an Omani initiative for a safe shipping lane and stipulated that any economic benefits for Iran are conditional on compliance with agreements.
However, subtle signs of lingering discontent emerged. GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi stressed that future arrangements must incorporate the requirements of Gulf council countries to safeguard their interests. Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani also noted that while progress is encouraging, Iran must fully adhere to its obligations, including preventing nuclear proliferation, maintaining freedom of navigation, and ceasing support for proxy groups.