US Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a three-day tour of the Gulf region to discuss a recently signed US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU) with leaders of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait. This was the first high-level diplomatic mission since the framework agreement was signed.
Key Provisions of the Agreement
The MoU, which extends the current ceasefire, includes the following provisions:
- Grants Iran a formal role, alongside Oman, in overseeing commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz
- Establishes a $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran, with regional funding mentioned in the agreement but not formally confirmed by Gulf states
- Does not address Iran's missile program
- Leaves the nuclear issue unresolved under the interim arrangement
Regional Reactions and Consultations
During his tour, Rubio met with officials from the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kuwait. He also attended a Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Bahrain.
Public Statements from Gulf States:
- Saudi Arabia stated it has "no details" about the proposal
- Qatar expressed interest but has not made a formal commitment
- Gulf countries, according to Rubio, expressed zero support for any Iranian toll on ships transiting the Strait
Rubio's Statements:
- "International waterways do not belong to any nation-state"
- "We're not going to do anything that undermines the security of our allies"
- The US remains "open for peace that is enduring and real and doesn't undermine security and prosperity for the US or its allies"
Rubio warned that allowing tolls on ships could "spread throughout the world like a contagion."
Background
The US and Iran agreed on the MoU to extend their ceasefire and negotiate a permanent end to the war, which began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
Rubio acknowledged the delicacy of his mission, noting that Gulf Arab leaders were wary that excessive concessions could strengthen Tehran and affect regional security and oil flows. According to source reports, Kuwait's position is particularly sensitive due to its reliance on oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz and its lack of advanced missile defenses.
Regarding the reconstruction fund, Rubio stated he did not discuss it with Gulf countries during the tour and would not ask regional allies to contribute to such a fund, despite the MoU suggesting regional countries would partially finance it.