Rubio heads towards the Middle East this week for the first time after signing Iran's Memorandum of Understanding

Rubio will visit the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Bahrain from Tuesday to Thursday, State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott announced on Monday. Iran repeatedly attacked these countries during the war, even during the nominal ceasefire. These attacks, which damaged both civilian and American infrastructure and assets, also caused casualties, including the deaths of six American military men.

During his trip, Rubio “will discuss a series of regional priorities, including the memorandum of understanding with Iran, efforts to ensure full, free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the importance of peace and stability in the region”, Pygott said in a statement.

While in Bahrain, Rubio will meet with the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) “to discuss common priorities throughout the region”, said Pigott.

GCC is expected to play a key role in implementing elements of the memorandum of understanding, especially in terms of the Hormuz Strait. A regional source told CNN that the US administration is relying on this multilateral body to lead efforts aimed at addressing Iran's ballistic missiles and its support for Allied groups in the region.