Secretary of State Marco Rubio began a tour of the Middle East on Wednesday, meeting with leaders in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The top diplomat is seeking to reassure Gulf allies of America's security commitments and the strength of an interim peace agreement and memorandum of understanding with Iran.
The tour focuses on Gulf states that were targeted by Iranian missiles and drones during the war. These allies have expressed skepticism regarding the proposed peace deal, viewing it as too generous and questioning a proposed $300-billion reconstruction fund for Tehran. Rubio assured these partners that Washington would protect their interests as it pursues a final settlement, telling reporters in Kuwait that the US is completely aligned with its partners in the Gulf.
President Donald Trump stated that talks are progressing well, even as Iran pushes back. Following a congressional resolution urging an end to hostilities, the president has requested nearly $88 billion in supplemental funding for the Pentagon.