Pompeo: U.S. is consulting with Middle East allies on U.S.-Iran negotiations

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain among Middle East allies, consulting on U.S.-Iran negotiations and regional security, and emphasizing that the United States seeks to ensure navigation safety in the Strait of Hormuz and press Iran to comply with its agreement commitments.

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Pompeo told reporters during his visit to Kuwait that the United States will not take any actions that would jeopardize the safety of its regional allies. He said that on that day he held what he described as candid, direct and very important talks with the Kuwaiti leadership, and earlier had held similar talks with the leadership of the United Arab Emirates. Pompeo will also visit Bahrain and meet with members of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

He told reporters in Kuwait that he is confident the Gulf Cooperation Council, composed of six member states, will support the United States' position that Iran must not levy any transit or usage fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Pompeo reiterated that the United States' security guarantees for Gulf countries remain unchanged, and said the United States hopes Iran will honor its commitments under the agreement. If Iran does not comply, the President has many options available, including re‑imposing sanctions. If Iran fulfills its commitments, the United States will continue to advance the related process.