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How Iran should approach the GCC

After reaching the nuclear deal, Iran has a chance to improve relations with the GCC states — but it must tread cautiously.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (2nd L) poses for members of the media with foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council as they meet to discuss Middle East concerns about an emerging nuclear deal with Iran, at the Chief of Mission Residence in Paris, France, May 8, 2015. REUTERS/Andrew Harnik/Pool - RTX1C3NI
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Two years ago, Hassan Rouhani was elected president on his promise of constructive engagement with the world, including Iran’s Arab neighbors. After winning the vote, Rouhani told an Al Jazeera reporter, “Our priority is improving our relationship with our neighbors. The states of the Persian Gulf are not only our neighbors, but our brothers.”

That objective has not been met. Instead, mutual accusations of undue interference in the other’s internal affairs have become the norm.

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