Rubio assures Gulf allies of U.S. alignment in Iran negotiations

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that Washington stands "completely aligned" with its Gulf allies regarding negotiations with Iran, aiming to finalize a deal that would end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. During a tour to reassure regional partners, Rubio stated from Kuwait that the U.S. intends to involve them in "every decision" concerning the negotiations.

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Washington will be 'completely aligned' with its Gulf allies in the negotiations with Iran to reach a final agreement that ends the war in the Middle East.

Hostilities, which began with significant attacks by the U.S. and Israel on Iran, were paused after a preliminary agreement was signed last week. The conflict had caused regional chaos, leading Tehran to block the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key route for hydrocarbons, and launch drone and missile attacks against its Gulf neighbors, where U.S. military forces are heavily present.

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We want to involve them in every decision that is made regarding this negotiation.

Before visiting Kuwait, Rubio met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, reaffirming Washington's commitment to the Emirates' security. Following Kuwait, Rubio is scheduled to attend a Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Bahrain. Meanwhile, diplomatic sources indicate Saudi Arabia may host reconciliation talks between Gulf nations and Iran, though dates are unconfirmed.

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The memorandum of understanding... has the value of a declaration of defeat of the United States.

Iran and the U.S. signed a memorandum of understanding that opens a 60-day period for negotiating a final agreement. U.S. and Iranian delegates are set to meet in Switzerland for technical discussions. Iran's chief negotiator, Mohamad Baqer Qalibaf, described the preliminary deal, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar, as a "declaration of U.S. defeat." The agreement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran wants to impose tolls, which the U.S. strongly opposes. Former President Donald Trump stated Iran assured him that no tolls or fees would be levied on the waterway.

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No tolls are being charged, nor insurance costs nor any other type of charge.