Marco Rubio says Iran deal could take days as US launches fresh strikes

US Sectary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that a possible agreement with Iran could take several more days to finalize, as negotiations continue in Qatar amid rising regional tensions.

Speaking to reporters in the Indian city of Jaipur, Rubio said discussions with Iranian officials were ongoing and both sides were continuing talks over the language and key points of an initial framework document.

Rubio said President Donald Trump wants an agreement but stressed that any deal must serve U.S. interests.

He also emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open because of its critical role in global trade and energy shipments.

Meanwhile, the United States Central Command claimed American forces carried out new strikes in southern Iran targeting missile-launch sites and boats allegedly involved in laying naval mines.

According to U.S. officials, the operations were conducted in defense of American troops and targeted locations reportedly linked to attempts to place mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian state media reported explosions near Bandar Abbas, though Iranian authorities have neither confirmed nor denied the U.S. claims.

At the same time, a new round of negotiations between Iranian negotiators and other officials is underway in Doha.

Reports said discussions are focusing on the Strait of Hormuz, an extension of the ceasefire, Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles and the release of frozen Iranian funds.