Can America stay out of the new deal with Iran? Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman are working on a new strategy for regional agreement. Know the complete analysis of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s terms and the changing diplomacy of the Middle East.
Middle East diplomacy appears to be reaching a new turning point. The intensifying talks between Iran, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have indicated that America’s role in any major agreement related to Iran in the future may be limited. Although no official announcement has been made in this direction yet, the ongoing discussions at the regional level have increased the concern of both global politics and the energy market.
Preparation for final agreement by August 2026
According to reports, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are planning to finalize a comprehensive agreement with Iran by August 2026. It is being said that the purpose of this plan is to reduce the direct role of America, so that in future, political conflict in the implementation of the agreement is reduced and regional countries can find solutions themselves. The initiative could follow the proposed US-Iran meeting in Qatar, where full implementation of the temporary agreement is likely to be discussed.
What is the strategy of Gulf countries?
The priority of the Gulf countries is to establish permanent peace in the Persian Gulf, so that oil and gas trade continues without any hindrance. Under this strategy, work is being done on four major points:
- Iran’s efforts to reach agreement on some economic terms, particularly toll arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz.
- Considering the Iran-US dispute as a regional issue, gradually excluding America from the talks.
- To promote direct dialogue between neighboring countries for regional security.
- Efforts to reduce external interference in other regional disputes including Lebanon.
On June 29, talks were held between Iran and Oman in this direction. After this, a round of talks took place between Oman-Qatar, then Iran-Saudi and finally Qatar-Saudi.
Why did the Strait of Hormuz become the biggest issue?
The biggest challenge to the agreement is regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has made it clear that it is not ready to give up its claim on this strategic sea route under any circumstances. On the other hand, America does not agree with Iran’s conditions on this issue.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered the most important route for the world’s energy supply. Globally, about 20 percent of oil and gas is supplied through this route. A large part of the major energy exporting countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and Kuwait depend on this sea route.
What can change the politics of the Middle East?
If this initiative of the Gulf countries is successful, then a new model of security and diplomacy may emerge in the Middle East, in which the regional countries will move towards resolving their disputes themselves. However, many political and strategic challenges remain regarding America’s reduced role and Iran’s conditions. At present, all eyes are on the proposed US-Iran meeting in Qatar and the regional diplomatic activities to be held thereafter, because these are expected to decide the future direction.