US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has discussed the recent US-Iran agreement with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reaffirming Washington’s commitment to the security of Gulf partners as he began a regional tour.
According to the US State Department, the two leaders on Wednesday reviewed President Donald Trump’s memorandum of understanding with Iran, efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional security issues.
Rubio also thanked the UAE for its support and resilience during the recent conflict with Iran, reiterating America's commitment to the Emirates’ security.
Gulf concerns in focus
Rubio’s trip comes amid efforts to reassure Gulf allies that the agreement with Tehran will not undermine their security interests.
Several Gulf states have expressed concern that the understanding with Iran does not directly address Tehran’s missile programme or its support for regional armed groups, issues that have long been among their top security priorities.
The UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain were all affected by Iranian attacks during the recent conflict, with Emirati territory reportedly facing the highest number of missile and drone strikes in the region.
Hormuz transit a key issue
Rubio also underscored Washington’s position on the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting suggestions that ships could be charged fees to pass through the strategic waterway.
“It’s an international waterway. No country is allowed to charge tolls or fees on an international waterway,” he said.
The secretary of state is visiting the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain this week, marking the first trip by a senior US official to the Gulf since the agreement with Iran was signed.
The tour is widely seen as part of a broader effort to reinforce ties with regional partners and address concerns over the future security architecture of the Gulf.
