Debating the GCC Role in the U.S.-Iran Memorandum of Understanding
21 July 2026 - 09:00 Washington, 14:00 London, 17:00 Dubai
A moderated discussion featuring:
Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Bourse & Bazaar Foundation
Yousuf Al Bulushi, Muscat Policy Center
Rashid Al Mohanadi, Center for International and Policy Research
Mahdi Ghuloom, Observer Research Foundation
Mansour Almarzoqi, Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies
The ongoing Iran–US negotiations cannot be understood solely as a bilateral process between Washington and Tehran. The GCC states are directly affected by their outcome and are already playing different roles in shaping the diplomatic environment surrounding the talks. Qatar is involved as a mediator, Oman is central to the Strait of Hormuz file, and Saudi Arabia and the UAE are influencing the wider regional context through their diplomatic positioning, security concerns, economic interests, and postwar engagement with Iran.
The Bourse & Bazaar Foundation is convening a 90-minute public dialogue with Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Yousuf Al Bulushi, Rashid Al Mohanadi, Mahdi Ghuloom, and Mansour Almarzoqi. Moderated by Mehran Haghirian, the dialogue will examine the role of the GCC states in the Iran–US MoU, the ongoing negotiations, and the prospects for a future regional security and economic architecture.
The discussion will test three propositions: whether the GCC states already have a meaningful role in the negotiations through both direct and indirect channels; whether the Hormuz file could provide the basis for an inclusive multilateral administrative framework for the strait, including possible maritime service or environmental fees consistent with freedom of transit; and whether a parallel process is needed to prepare the ground for a structured Iran–GCC–Iraq dialogue on regional security, deconfliction, and economic interdependence.
To participate, please register by clicking the button below.
For more information, contact Maryam Ashrafi at maryam [at] bourseandbazaar.org.