Washington, March 28: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the American military campaign against Iran is progressing “on schedule or ahead of it,” with expectations that its objectives will be achieved “in weeks, not months.” This statement is perceived as a signal of Washington’s intensified efforts against Tehran.
Speaking after meetings with G7 allies in Paris, Rubio emphasized that a clear outline for the mission was established from the outset.
He declared, “We will destroy Iran’s navy, eliminate their air force, and fundamentally dismantle their missile and drone production capabilities at their factories.”
Rubio added that the campaign aims to significantly reduce the number of missile launchers, preventing Iran from hiding behind them to develop nuclear weapons and threaten the world.
He noted that progress is ongoing, stating, “We are on schedule or ahead in this operation, and we hope to complete it in a few weeks, not months. Progress is very good.”
Rubio clarified that ground troops will not be necessary, as these objectives can be achieved without them.
He also warned of potential risks following the operation, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil supply. He mentioned that Iran might attempt to implement a toll system there, which he described as “illegal,” “unacceptable,” and “dangerous for the world.”
“It is essential for the world to devise a plan against this,” he said, adding that the U.S. is ready to participate but does not need to lead the effort.
Rubio stressed that, besides the G7, Asian countries also have a significant stake in ensuring that international waterways are not under the control of any “nation-state or terrorist government.”
He indicated that this approach has garnered broad support from allies, with considerable backing for the idea.
Defending the campaign, Rubio distinguished between the Iranian government and its people, stating, “The people of Iran are wonderful. They deserve much better, while the leadership is a ‘hardline Shia clerical regime.'”
He accused this regime of using the country’s resources to “promote terrorism, create rockets, drones, missiles, and naval mines” instead of investing in development.
Rubio asserted, “Iran was already weak. When we complete our work in the coming weeks, they will be even weaker than in recent history.” He warned that allowing such a regime to acquire nuclear weapons would be “insanity.”
On the Russia-Ukraine war, Rubio reiterated America’s readiness to play a role in establishing peace, stating, “We are prepared to take any constructive role to end that war.” However, no meetings are currently scheduled.
He also hinted that U.S. military supplies designated for Ukraine could be prioritized if necessary, emphasizing that the U.S. has military needs and will always come first in terms of resources.
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