Marco Rubio says Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons

ROME: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that no country in the world wants to see Iran acquire nuclear weapons, stressing that the United States will not allow Tehran to develop such capabilities under any circumstances.

Speaking during a media briefing, Rubio said Washington is still awaiting Iran’s response to recent proposals, but expects a reply to arrive within the day. He expressed hope that serious negotiations with Tehran could move forward.

He also claimed that the US Navy has blocked 70 tankers heading toward Iran, reiterating that control of strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz cannot be monopolized by any single country.

Rubio clarified that recent strikes on Iran were not part of “Operation Epic Fury” and warned that any missile attacks on US forces would be met with a strong retaliatory response.

On regional matters, the US Secretary of State said Washington would not engage in talks with Hezbollah and is focusing its diplomatic efforts solely on the Lebanese government.

Regarding NATO deployments, he stated that no specific decisions were discussed during meetings in Italy, adding that final authority on troop movements rests with the US President.

On China and Taiwan, Rubio said there has been no change in US policy, though discussions may take place during any future presidential visit to China.

He also noted that the United States is ready to mediate a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, urging both sides to make progress in negotiations, while warning that Washington will not engage in endless talks without results.

Rubio emphasized that the United States will continue diplomatic efforts to resolve global conflicts but will avoid prolonged negotiations that fail to deliver practical outcomes.