US signals tough stance as Rubio says Iran seeks path toward agreement

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Iranian negotiators appear serious about reaching an agreement with the United States and are looking to move past the current diplomatic deadlock.

In an interview with Fox News, Rubio said that while Iranian negotiators want to resolve the ongoing impasse, he believes the country’s political leadership is “fragmented” and creating obstacles in the negotiation process.

He further claimed that Iran’s leadership is seeking additional time, adding that the country is facing severe economic difficulties, including high inflation, financial strain on state institutions, and challenges in paying salaries.

Rubio also asserted that Iran’s missile capabilities have significantly weakened, claiming reductions in stockpiles and damage to production facilities, along with losses in its air and naval strength.

When asked about the US response if Iran refuses to engage in talks, Rubio said such decisions rest with former President Donald Trump, adding that economic sanctions on Iran are already “extraordinary” and could be further intensified.

He argued that the ongoing tensions have highlighted what he described as the threat posed by Iran, claiming that Tehran seeks to use both its energy resources and strategic position to exert pressure globally an approach he termed unacceptable.