Gulf Arabs welcome Iran nuclear deal but seek further assurance

DOHA, Qatar — Gulf Arab states on Monday welcomed the nuclear deal negotiated between Iran and world powers but said they would like further assurances that the U.S. would help them counter increasing Iranian assertiveness in the region.

Speaking for the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council, Qatar's top diplomat said Monday that the bloc had been impressed by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry's presentation of the agreement and explanations of how it will be verified and enforced.

"Consequently, the GCC countries have welcomed on this basis what has been displayed and what has been talked about by His Excellency Mr. Kerry," said Foreign Minister Khalid al-Attiya, whose nation currently chairs the group.

"He let us know that there is a going to be live oversight over Iran," al Attiya said of Kerry's presentation. "This is reassuring to the region."

Read Tuesday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.

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