We need to ensure that this text is conveyed to each of the countries concerned, first through diplomatic channels, and then verify that it has been taken into account by each of their leaders. We must then maintain constant contact for as long as necessary, even if this overlaps with negotiations taking place elsewhere. I don’t have the resources to do that. It would have to be done by volunteer diplomats, regardless of their country
Today, there is no representative body for the countries bordering the Persian Gulf. There is a Gulf Cooperation Council that gives the impression of being such a body, even though it represents only six countries, excluding Iran and Iraq. The GCC aims to establish an economic and political union, which will not be the case for the Persian Gulf Council, should it be established.
If there were a “Persian Gulf Council,” its primary role would be to establish rules for managing maritime traffic and all matters related to the Persian Gulf (pollution, traffic supervision, etc.). Ultimately, such a body is essential, and if it is established, decisions will initially be made by unanimous consent to ensure that they truly reflect the will of the countries bordering the Persian Gulf.
For now, the only negotiations taking place are those between the United States and Iran. Does the “Persian Gulf Council” feel bound by the decisions that the United States and Iran will make, supposedly on its behalf? I don’t think so, but if the “Persian Gulf Council” does not come into being, the decisions implemented in the Persian Gulf will be those of the United States and Iran.
Some Gulf countries have believed—and continue to believe—that U.S. military power is sufficient and will remain sufficient to ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Take a good look at what is happening: they are currently unable to do so. They can impose a blockade on Iranian ports but will be unable to ensure the safety of any ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz. To achieve this, they would need a military operation on a very, very large scale, which is not on the table for the U.S. at this time.
If the few countries opposed to Iran’s permanent control of the Strait of Hormuz express their opposition only through the United States, you will find yourselves in an unexpected position:
- the Gulf Cooperation Council will, in effect, be replaced by the U.S.-Iran duo
- The toll on the Strait of Hormuz will be collected by Iran (and perhaps the United States) and not by the Persian Gulf Council
Is this your unanimous decision?
Keep in mind that there may be instances of pollution or ships in distress in the Persian Gulf, and that it would be beneficial to have a maritime oversight body representing all the countries of the Persian Gulf. And when that happens, a toll will be necessary to fund it, without any single country claiming to be the sole beneficiary.
Is it your preference to have maritime regulations in the Persian Gulf governed by a U.S.-Iran agreement that will become permanent and be administered solely by the United States and Iran?
Nothing is stopping you from speaking your mind and making decisions.
As far as I’m concerned, there will be no further discussion on this matter unless you have first made a decision
See: Persian Gulf Council (and the few articles that followed)
Naej DRANER
Naej DRANER is a political and security analyst and solutions architect. At a meeting of the Persian Gulf Council, his status as an official advisor to the Persian Gulf Council will be submitted for approval. Only a unanimous decision by the full members will be acceptable.
April 23, 2026