Rubio Defends the Iran Deal in the Persian Gulf

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is touring the Gulf states, seeking to allay the concerns of regional allies regarding the peace agreement between the United States and Iran.

The secretary of state held talks in Abu Dhabi with the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and other senior officials. Topics of discussion included the memorandum of understanding with Iran, the security of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and stability in the region. Rubio also reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the security of the United Arab Emirates.

The agreement between the US and Iran, signed last week, includes, among other things, a $300bn fund and the easing of certain sanctions. Several US allies in the region fear that Tehran could use these resources to rebuild its military capabilities.

During his trip, Rubio will also visit Kuwait and Bahrain. The talks are taking place in parallel with preparations for further regional discussions on the Strait of Hormuz and the continuation of US-Iranian negotiations, which are intended to address sensitive issues related to Iran's nuclear program within 60 days.

(Reuters, bak)