Diplomacy – US Reaffirms Gulf Security Commitments While Advancing Iran Talks
Diplomacy – The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its long-standing Gulf allies while continuing diplomatic engagement with Iran, making it clear that regional security will remain a key consideration throughout the negotiation process.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Gulf nations continue to have confidence in Washington’s security partnership, describing the relationship as one built over several decades through military cooperation, strategic assets, and a permanent American presence across the region. Speaking to journalists at Kuwait International Airport after concluding meetings with Gulf leaders, Rubio said these partnerships are based on established realities rather than future assurances.
Gulf Allies Remain Central to US Policy
Rubio stressed that ongoing diplomatic discussions with Iran would not come at the expense of America’s regional partners. According to him, the United States intends to remain closely coordinated with Gulf governments as negotiations move forward following the memorandum of understanding reached during recent talks in Switzerland.
He emphasized that Washington would avoid any agreement capable of weakening the security interests of countries that have maintained close ties with the United States for many years. Rubio said cooperation with Gulf partners would remain a priority throughout every stage of the diplomatic process.
Rubio Rejects Strait of Hormuz Payment Proposal
Responding to reports suggesting Gulf countries could consider an Iranian proposal involving payments for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio dismissed the concept. He argued that international waterways should remain freely accessible and said any effort to impose fees on global maritime routes would likely face widespread international opposition.
The Secretary noted that freedom of navigation is an essential principle and maintained that global shipping lanes must remain open without financial barriers.
Temporary Sanctions Relief Linked to Iranian Commitments
Rubio also defended the administration’s decision to temporarily ease certain oil-related sanctions on Iran, explaining that the measure forms part of the broader diplomatic framework. He clarified that the relief would remain in place for only 60 days and depends entirely on Iran fulfilling the commitments it made during negotiations.
He warned that President Donald Trump retains multiple policy options if Tehran fails to meet its obligations, including restoring sanctions. Rubio repeatedly underlined that Iran’s future progress in negotiations depends on honoring the promises made in Switzerland.
Nuclear Talks to Continue Next Week
The Secretary confirmed that technical-level discussions are scheduled to resume next week. Officials from the US State Department, Department of Energy, and other agencies are expected to participate in specialized working groups focusing on sanctions, nuclear issues, and other complex aspects of the negotiations.
When asked about the return of international nuclear inspectors to Iran, Rubio said inspectors should be allowed back into the country as quickly as possible, describing it as one of the commitments already accepted by Tehran.
Israel, Lebanon and Sudan Also Discussed
Addressing speculation that Israel may oppose the current understanding reached with Iran, Rubio dismissed such reports, saying Israeli officials are fully aware of the ongoing diplomatic efforts and understand the administration’s objectives and negotiating limits.
He also provided an update on US-supported discussions involving Israel and Lebanon. Rubio said the long-term goal is to strengthen Lebanon’s legitimate government and armed forces so they can gradually assume greater control over areas affected by conflict involving Hezbollah. He acknowledged that achieving this objective would require time and sustained international support.
In addition, Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to securing the release of Americans wrongfully detained overseas. He also reiterated US support for diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict in Sudan through a ceasefire, expanded humanitarian assistance, and a durable political settlement.