US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Gulf allies yesterday that any deal with Iran would take their interests into account.
Speaking at a meeting of Gulf Arab foreign ministers in Manama, Rubio said Washington was seeking ‘an enduring peace’ with Iran that would not come at the expense of the security of allies in the region.
He stressed that the United States envisions a Middle East focused on economic development and improving people’s lives, rather than conflict or weapons production.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges, Rubio said the US, working with GCC partners, aims to pursue constructive dialogue with Iran and hopes Tehran will prioritise the welfare of its people over exporting revolutionary ideology.
He emphasised that while Washington is open to an agreement, it would only support one that is credible, verifiable and lasting. Any commitments, he added, must be fully implemented and respected both during and after negotiations.
Addressing concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio said international waterways must remain open and cannot be controlled or subjected to fees by any single nation.
He also reaffirmed that any agreement must ensure, through verifiable measures, that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.
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