By Gram Slattery and Timour Azhari
ABU DHABI, June 23 (Reuters) – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio must navigate complex diplomatic challenges this week as he advocates for Washington’s Iran peace accord to Gulf Arab states concerned about geopolitical and security implications.
His itinerary includes meetings in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, followed by engagements with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) officials in Kuwait and Bahrain. These nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman, serve as critical U.S. allies hosting strategic military infrastructure in the region.
Central to the discussions are provisions of the draft agreement allowing Iran to retain unrestricted ballistic missile capabilities, a $300 billion reconstruction fund, and expanded regional influence. Gulf leaders express apprehension that these elements could undermine regional stability and disrupt oil shipping routes critical to their economies.
The six GCC countries, which supported U.S. military operations during recent conflicts and faced Iranian airstrikes, remain pivotal to American strategic interests. A shift in their stance could jeopardize U.S. regional security architecture.
Rubio’s challenge lies in advocating the agreement without alienating allies. President Trump, who endorsed the deal, faces criticism from some U.S. lawmakers, yet he maintains a firm commitment to the accord. Advisors suggest Rubio should emphasize Trump’s recorded tough stance on Iran to bolster credibility.
Historically, Gulf states backed diplomatic solutions during the conflict in February but privately reacted strongly to the terms revealed in the memorandum of understanding (MoU). Analysts note the document’s silence on missile restrictions contrasts with prior U.S. objectives during the war, while the reconstruction funds risk bolstering Iran’s military capacity rather than its economy.
Bahrain, with its Sunni monarchy, worries that a empowered Iran might incite Shi’ite uprisings, reminiscent of past Arab Spring turmoil. Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia fear increased Iranian control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for their oil exports.
The agreement’s framing of Iran as a “regional power” alarms observers. Saudi columnist Abdulrahman Al-Rashed argued that funds allocated to Iran would likely prioritize military strength over public welfare. Vice President JD Vance’s reference to “fundamentally transforming” relations with Tehran further elevates regional concerns.
While the U.S. seeks to reposition Iran diplomatically, Gulf allies demand assurances that their security interests remain paramount. The success of Rubio’s mission hinges on balancing these competing priorities without undermining Trump’s doctrinal position.
