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

Marco Rubio

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.

US President Trump hints at ‘surprise’ on Iran deal

US President

US President Donald Trump has said there is “good news” regarding Iran and hinted that “something surprising” could happen soon, according to international news agencies.

Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that if no agreement is reached, US restrictions on Iranian ports will remain in place. “Something is going to happen tomorrow, I think it will be a very positive development. There may be a surprise,” he remarked.

According to Reuters, the US President also said that a “very important and intelligent personality” is scheduled to visit the White House, adding that a major press conference will be held the following morning. He clarified that while the event is not directly related, it will likely include questions on the matter.

Trump further claimed that the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz is continuing successfully, and said that several issues with Iran have already been agreed upon, while Iranian leadership is presenting a different narrative for domestic audiences.

He reiterated that Iran will not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, stating that negotiations are ongoing through his representatives, while the final decision rests with him.

The US President also suggested that if a deal is reached, nuclear material could be transferred from Iran to the United States. Otherwise, he warned of stronger measures to secure nuclear-related materials. He added that a ceasefire extension may not be continued, but sanctions and restrictions would remain in place.

Trump also commented on regional affairs, saying the United States would help stabilize Lebanon, which has faced prolonged instability. He acknowledged differences with Israeli leadership but described Benjamin Netanyahu as a reliable partner.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have announced that the Strait of Hormuz has been reopened for commercial shipping, though they linked its continued openness to a ceasefire agreement, warning it could be closed again if terms are violated.