The U.S. Department of State announced that Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio is set to embark on a Gulf tour visiting the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The aim is to discuss developments related to the memorandum of understanding with Iran and consult on prominent security and regional issues.
The U.S. State Department spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, stated that the tour will commence on Tuesday and continue through Thursday, noting that Rubio will participate in meetings with leaders and officials of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries during his visit to Bahrain.
The discussions will focus on several key issues, including the U.S.-Iranian memorandum of understanding, maritime security, ensuring free passage in the Strait of Hormuz, and efforts to enhance security and stability in the region.
This tour follows the conclusion of the first round of U.S.-Iranian talks in Switzerland, which aimed to lay the groundwork for a permanent agreement spanning 60 days. Mediators from Pakistan and Qatar confirmed progress described as encouraging and agreed to continue technical discussions in the coming days.
The mediators also announced the formation of a special committee to monitor the implementation of the negotiation roadmap, in addition to establishing a communication mechanism to ensure the safety of commercial navigation in the Strait of Hormuz during the upcoming transitional phase.
This new Gulf tour reflects Washington's commitment to coordinating positions with its regional allies while diplomatic efforts persist to transform initial understandings with Tehran into a comprehensive and sustainable agreement.