Gulf States Reportedly Pursue Separate Regional Security Talks With Iran

Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar have been seeking direct diplomatic contacts and negotiations with Iran during U.S.-Iran talks, according to a report by the UK’s The Daily Telegraph dated June 30. According to Jin10, the report said Gulf states were adjusting their relationship with Iran as U.S. credibility declined. After Iran and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding, Iran and Oman held their first meeting to discuss management of the Strait of Hormuz, the report said. It added that further talks were expected among Oman and Qatar, Iran and Saudi Arabia, and Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with the aim of determining how the region would coexist after the end of hostilities. The consultations were reported to cover plans for managing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and potential economic incentives Gulf states could offer Iran in exchange for corresponding security concessions. The report said these discussions were taking place alongside, but independently from, the U.S.-Iran negotiations.