Gulf States Push Multipart Peace Deal to Avert US-Iran War 2026

Gulf states are working on a multipart peace deal to avert a renewal of war between the US and Iran, with a key focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing the conflict in Yemen. The plan, which has been discussed with US officials, aims to prevent what Gulf states see as a disastrous escalation.

The deal centers on Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz within four days of sanctions being lifted, and the Houthis withdrawing substantial forces inside Yemen. The US is aware of the talks but is holding out for a concession, possibly Iran allowing UN weapons inspectors back into the country.

Key Elements of the Multipart Peace Deal

The proposed agreement is multifaceted, addressing both the maritime standoff and the regional conflict in Yemen. Iran has shown flexibility by reducing its proposed timeline for reopening the strait from seven days to four days after sanctions relief.

• Strait of Hormuz reopening: Iran would reopen the strategic waterway within four days of sanctions being lifted.
• Houthi withdrawal: The Houthis would pull back substantial forces inside Yemen, signaling Iran's mediating role.
• Sanctions relief: Iran seeks guarantees of sanctions relief in return for compliance.
• UN weapons inspectors: The US and European powers want Iran to readmit UN inspectors to its nuclear sites.
• US awareness: Washington is monitoring progress but insists on further concessions.

Iran's Stance and Flexibility

Iran remains focused on sanctions relief but has signaled flexibility on the timeline for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Dr. Ali Bagheri, deputy secretary of Iran's national security council, indicated Iran's willingness to reduce the reopening period to four days.

In a further sign of flexibility, Iran is starting to acknowledge its mediating role in the Yemen conflict. This marks a potential shift in Tehran's posture, as it seeks to avoid a military confrontation with the US.

US and European Pressure for Nuclear Inspections

The US is holding out for a concession that European powers suggest could involve Iran allowing UN weapons inspectors back into the country. British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband urged Iran to agree to readmit inspectors during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in New York.

So far, Iran has refused, saying it will only hold talks in principle on its nuclear program. European diplomats believe that allowing inspectors to reenter Iran and visit its bombed nuclear sites is a minimum requirement for a breakthrough with President Trump.

Comparison of Key Positions

Why This Matters for Global Security

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and its closure would have severe economic consequences. A renewal of war between the US and Iran could destabilize the entire Gulf region and disrupt energy supplies.

Gulf states are keen to avoid such a scenario, as they would be on the front lines of any conflict. Their diplomatic efforts reflect a desire for stability and economic continuity.

What to Watch Next

The coming weeks will be crucial as negotiations continue. Key indicators include whether Iran agrees to allow UN inspectors back in, and whether the US offers sanctions relief in return for concrete steps.

The role of European mediators, particularly the UK, will also be important in bridging the gap between Tehran and Washington.

For context on how tensions have escalated, see our coverage of Hormuz talks postponed: Gulf states Iran tensions impact. The situation remains fluid, with each side testing the other's resolve.

The humanitarian dimension is also significant, as seafarers have been caught in the middle of the Gulf crisis. Our report on ship crews trapped in Gulf: a crisis of seafarers highlights the human cost of the standoff.

Meanwhile, Iran's threats to target US bases in the Gulf have added to the urgency of diplomatic efforts. As detailed in Iran targets US bases in Gulf as sanctions escalate tensions, the military dimension cannot be ignored.

Gulf states are also working to ensure that any deal addresses the broader regional conflict, including Yemen. The Hormuz talks postponed: Gulf states Iran tensions impact article provides additional background on the stalled negotiations.

For those following the maritime aspect, the ship crews trapped in Gulf: a crisis of seafarers piece underscores the need for a swift resolution to the Strait of Hormuz issue.

And as Iran targets US bases in Gulf as sanctions escalate tensions shows, the risk of miscalculation remains high, making the multipart peace deal all the more urgent.