Rubio tours Gulf states to ease concerns over the Iran accord as allies question its security and military implications.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has begun a diplomatic tour of the Gulf aimed at easing concerns among regional partners over a recent agreement between Washington and Tehran, which some allies believe does not go far enough in addressing Iran’s military capabilities and regional influence.
Rubio held talks on Wednesday with United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, where discussions focused on the US-Iran understanding, regional security, and the stability of vital shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The visit marks Rubio’s first major diplomatic engagement in the region since the United States and Iran reached a landmark accord last week designed to bring an end to months of conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
During meetings with senior Emirati officials, including National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Rubio emphasized Washington’s commitment to maintaining security partnerships across the Gulf.
According to the US State Department, discussions also covered the safe movement of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway that experienced major disruptions during the conflict, as well as broader efforts to preserve regional stability.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival, Rubio acknowledged that concerns surrounding the agreement would feature prominently in discussions with Gulf leaders. He noted that several issues important to regional allies remain outside the scope of the current framework and would require further engagement.
The secretary of state’s trip comes as questions continue to emerge about the agreement reached between Washington and Tehran, which includes proposals for a substantial reconstruction fund and the easing of selected sanctions on Iran.
While Rubio now leads efforts to explain the accord to regional partners, Vice President JD Vance recently played a central role in direct discussions with Iranian officials during talks held in Switzerland.
In addition to the UAE, Rubio is scheduled to visit Kuwait and Bahrain, both key American security partners that host US military facilities and were affected by Iranian missile attacks during the conflict.
The UAE is regarded as one of the countries most vulnerable to the economic fallout from the war, with instability prompting some expatriate workers and investors to leave the country, placing pressure on sectors beyond oil and gas.
Meanwhile, diplomatic activity elsewhere in the region is continuing. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani travelled to Oman on Wednesday for discussions reportedly focused on launching broader regional talks involving Iran, Iraq, and Gulf Arab states concerning maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.
The strategic waterway carries a significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas exports and has remained under intense scrutiny since hostilities erupted earlier this year, disrupting commercial shipping and unsettling global energy markets.
Separate efforts are also underway to organize wider regional dialogue in Riyadh that could bring together Iran, Gulf Arab nations, and other Middle Eastern countries as part of a broader reconciliation initiative.
Rubio’s remarks throughout the trip are expected to be closely watched, particularly given his long-standing reputation as a critic of Iran. Observers will be looking for clues on how he balances support for President Donald Trump’s diplomatic initiative while addressing scepticism among traditional US allies.
The agreement signed last week outlines a framework intended to formally end the conflict and sets the stage for further negotiations over the next two months. Those talks are expected to address more contentious issues, including the future of Iran’s nuclear activities.
One of the most sensitive questions remains the fate of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which Western governments view as a potential proliferation risk. Iranian officials maintain that their nuclear programme is intended solely for civilian purposes.
Gulf states have also voiced concerns that financial resources made available under the agreement could strengthen Iran’s military capabilities. Regional governments are additionally seeking greater clarity on how Tehran’s ballistic missile programme will be addressed in future negotiations.