World Bulletin / News Desk

Gulf Arab countries Qatar and Kuwait have came out in favour of Iran's agreement with world powers over its nuclear programme, saying they hoped it would help to preserve stability and security in the region.

Iran's only two Arab friends - Iraq and Syria - were quick to praise the deal on Sunday, as was the Palestinian Authority which welcomed it for putting pressure on Israel. The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain also spoke out in support.

Qatar said the agreement was "an important step towards safeguarding peace and stability in the region", according to a statement by the Foreign Ministry posted on its website late on Sunday.

"The State of Qatar calls for making the Middle East a nuclear weapon-free zone," the ministry said.

Kuwait's Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Khaled al-Jarallah said he hoped the agreement "would pave the way for a permanent accord that would defuse tension, and preserves the stability and security of the region," according to state news agency KUNA.

Saudi Arabia and Oman are yet to make an official comment on the deal.