Rubio Assures Gulf Allies on Iran Deal, Rules Out Strait of Hormuz Tolls

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, initiating a three-nation Gulf tour aimed at alleviating concerns among regional allies over a recent U.S.-Iran agreement. The deal, finalized in Switzerland, outlines an end to hostilities and provides sanctions relief for Iran in exchange for negotiations on its nuclear program within 60 days. However, Gulf states that came under Iranian missile attacks during the war remain skeptical about their security and economic interests under the new arrangement.

In a press briefing upon arrival, Rubio emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz—a critical waterway for global oil shipments—must remain open and free under international law. "No country is allowed to charge tolls or fees on an international waterway," he stated, directly countering Iranian suggestions that the strait might be jointly managed with Oman and subject to service fees. His remarks aimed to reassure Gulf nations that the U.S. would not accept any restrictions on navigation.

Rubio’s tour includes visits to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain, all of which faced Iranian retaliatory strikes after U.S.-Israeli military operations in February. The attacks targeted energy infrastructure and commercial sites, causing billions of dollars in losses and damaging the region's reputation as a safe haven for investment. Benjamin Radd, a senior fellow at UCLA’s Burkle Center, noted that Gulf states have felt vulnerable and seek guarantees that any deal with Iran will not leave them exposed to future threats.

Addressing concerns that the memorandum of understanding (MoU) does not explicitly cover Iran’s missile program or support for proxies, Rubio argued that the agreement’s call for a "complete end of hostilities and conflicts in the region" implicitly requires Iran to halt funding for groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. He also stated that a proposed $300 billion investment fund for Iran would only materialize if Tehran transitions from a revolutionary movement to a normal nation.

Rubio is expected to meet with leaders in each destination and attend a Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Bahrain. Meanwhile, UAE Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty discussed regional developments and emphasized continued coordination to achieve peace and stability.