U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the United States will keep the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) informed about all stages of the ongoing negotiations with Iran, emphasizing that any potential agreement will consider both American interests and those of its Gulf allies.
During the Gulf-U.S. ministerial meeting held in Manama, Rubio explained that Washington will share the results of progress made at both technical and political levels with Gulf states. He assured that the U.S. administration will listen to its partners' positions and work to align their interests with American goals before arriving at any final agreement.
The U.S. Secretary described the meeting as fruitful and an important step towards enhancing regional coordination, reiterating that the U.S. aims to reach a "good and genuine" agreement with Iran, but stressed that it will not do so "at any cost."
On maritime navigation, Rubio reaffirmed the U.S. rejection of any imposition of fees or restrictions on transit through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that it is an international waterway that cannot be controlled or owned by any one nation. He warned that such measures could lead to significant disruptions in global trade.
He also reiterated Washington's stance against Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon, noting that the United States supports achieving a lasting peace that ensures its own security as well as that of its allies. Rubio expressed readiness to economically support Iran if it chooses to focus on its people’s development and adhere to international commitments.
Rubio's statements come at the conclusion of his Gulf tour, which included stops in the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain. His visit coincided with ongoing U.S.-Iranian consultations as part of efforts to enhance coordination with Gulf states concerning regional security, freedom of navigation, and the future of negotiations with Tehran.