Gulf states and US call for broader restrictions on Iran

The Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a meeting in Bahrain, issuing a joint statement that urged Washington to address Iranian threats. The GCC requested that future negotiations include Iran's ballistic missile programs, drone capabilities, and regional support for armed organizations. U.S. officials assured the GCC members that any future agreements with Iran would protect regional security and stability. Conversely, the Iranian Foreign Ministry criticized the statement as interventionist, provocative, and irresponsible. Tehran asserted that the U.S. presence in the region creates division and instability. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the GCC reaffirmed its support for free and unconditional navigation without tolls or unauthorized controls. Iran reiterated its historical stance that the management of the Strait should be conducted jointly with Oman according to an existing memorandum. The GCC also emphasized that all economic transactions and investments with Iran should be conditional and reversible to prevent destabilizing behavior.