A memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran has drawn criticism for failing to address core security concerns of Gulf states.
The agreement is viewed as a precarious balance that provides immediate benefits to Tehran without establishing safeguards against regional threats. Analysts suggest that by overlooking missile programs and the support of armed groups, the deal may leave Gulf nations vulnerable to continued instability.
Ahdia Al-Sayed, former president of the Bahrain Journalists Association, said the memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran did not answer basic Gulf concerns, specifically regarding Iran's missile program and its support for armed wings in the region.
Dr. Mohannad Al-Azzawi, a political-military analyst, said the agreement stopped the war but failed to establish clear monitoring mechanisms or guarantees. He noted that the current framework prioritizes the cessation of active conflict over the long-term structural security of the region.
The deal includes a 60-day period [1] that will serve as a test of Iran's behavior. Al-Azzawi said this window will be a real test of whether Tehran intends to adhere to the spirit of the agreement or simply utilize the pause for strategic advantage.
Critics argue that the absence of a rigorous verification process allows Iran to maintain its regional influence while receiving diplomatic or economic relief. The lack of specific clauses targeting the proliferation of ballistic missiles remains a primary point of contention for regional allies of the U.S.
“The agreement stopped the war but it did not put in place clear monitoring mechanisms.”
This friction highlights a recurring diplomatic tension where U.S. efforts to prevent a direct war with Iran may clash with the security requirements of its Gulf partners. If the 60-day trial period fails to produce verifiable changes in Iranian behavior, the U.S. may face increased pressure from regional allies to pivot from a memorandum of understanding toward a more restrictive, enforceable security treaty.
