US Secretary of State Rubio Seeks Gulf Support Amid Fragile US‑Iran Armistice

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that Gulf Arab states will remain closely involved in the ongoing negotiations with Iran, emphasizing that any agreement will not undermine the security of regional partners. Speaking after a U.S.–Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Bahrain, Rubio said the United States will establish a formal consultation process with Gulf governments at every stage of the talks.

Following the June 17 memorandum of understanding that extended a cease‑fire and opened a 60‑day negotiation window, Rubio embarked on a diplomatic tour of the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain to reassure allies that their security interests will not be sacrificed. He warned that the United States would not accept any deal that “undermines their security and stability.” The armistice has already allowed limited reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a route for about 20% of global oil trade, but Gulf states remain wary of Iran’s continued control over maritime traffic and its support for proxy groups.

The United States and its Gulf partners continue to monitor the situation closely amid recent skirmishes and incidents that have kept the region on high alert.