Who will give 300 billion dollars to Iran? Increased concern of Gulf countries regarding Marco Rubio’s visit

Desk. The possible agreement between America and Iran has worried the Gulf countries. In fact, the current topic of discussion in the Gulf countries is how much money Iran is going to get under the agreement and who will give that money? US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is going to reach West Asia on a three-day visit. Where he will meet the leaders of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Kuwait. The US administration is trying to convince its allies in West Asia that the agreement with Iran is in their interest.

However, Gulf countries remain concerned. Most countries have welcomed efforts to end the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran. However, their concern is about what concessions Iran can get if the talks are successful and whether this agreement will be successful in curbing Iran’s military ambitions or not.

What is the reason for concern of Gulf countries?

• The most talked about package of $300 billion is being given for the reconstruction and economic development of Iran. The peace agreement memorandum states that the US, along with regional partners, will provide at least $300 billion for Iran’s reconstruction and economic development. The framework for implementing this scheme will be decided in the next 60 days under the final agreement.
• Gulf countries fear that such a huge amount can help Iran compensate for its war losses as well as increase its military capability and regional influence. Apart from this, many countries also have objection that there is no direct mention of Iran’s ballistic missile program in the recent MoU.
• These concerns are even more important for countries where US military bases are present. Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar are major partners of the US security system. During the conflict with Iran, these countries also faced Iranian missile and drone attacks, in which civilian infrastructure was also targeted.

Rubio’s visit is taking place at a time when the leaders of Gulf countries are supporting the peace agreement between America and Iran, but they also want to know what Washington is going to give to Iran and what will it get from Tehran in return? Till now no Gulf country has agreed to provide financial assistance to Iran. US President Donald Trump has also said not to provide financial aid to Iran. Under the peace agreement, America will also release Iran’s seized assets. However, Iran will be able to use this money only for humanitarian and agricultural needs.

Rubio’s talks will not be limited to economic issues only. A major topic of his visit will also be the Strait of Hormuz, considered one of the most important sea routes for oil and gas supply routes in the world. This route became a center of tension during the Iran conflict and till now maritime traffic has not been completely normalized here. According to analytics company Kpler, 71 ships passed through the strait last week, whereas before the conflict the daily flow of 100 to 131 ships was normal.