Gulf States Seek Dialogue with Iran Despite US Alliance

Washington/Tehran – 29.06.2026: Recent developments in the Middle East present a tense regional situation, yet despite these tensions, both the USA and Iran continue their diplomatic contacts. Both sides have announced they will, for now, refrain from further military actions and continue the dialogue. This détente also impacts the Gulf States, which are traditionally close allies of the United States.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain to discuss the recently signed framework agreement with Iran. Key topics of the talks were securing shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz and the overall stability of the region. In Bahrain, Rubio also met representatives of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to intensify cooperation on security-related issues.

Contrary to their close ties with the USA, the Gulf States are showing growing interest in direct dialogue with Iran. Saudi Arabia, for example, has actively worked behind the scenes on drafting the agreement and emphasized the importance of a stable relationship with Tehran. Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan described the signing of the letter of intent as “incredibly important” and hopes it will contribute to resolving the conflict.

The current diplomacy of the Gulf States takes place against the backdrop of recent Iranian attacks on US military installations as well as civilian targets in the Gulf States. Despite these attacks, the affected countries have refrained from retaliatory measures. This restraint follows a strategic realignment focused primarily on de-escalation and political solutions.

Simultaneously, the European Union has reaffirmed its support for the Gulf States and called for further dialogue with Iran. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas sharply criticized the Iranian strikes and stressed the urgent need to restore stability in the region. During a videoconference with foreign ministers from the EU and the Gulf States, options for cooperation on conflict resolution were discussed.

Although the USA and Iran currently intend to refrain from further attacks, the practical implementation of the framework agreement is still open. Both sides are preparing technical talks scheduled to begin in the coming days.

For the Gulf States, the situation represents a significant challenge. They must shape their relations with the USA and simultaneously maintain dialogue with Iran in a way that preserves their national interests while contributing to regional stability. The coming weeks will show how promising this balancing act is.

Overall, recent developments illustrate that despite the close US alliance, the Gulf States are increasingly seeking exchange with Iran to sustainably ease tensions in the Middle East.