Washington, June 24: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has made significant remarks regarding peace proposals with Iran. Speaking to reporters, he stated that the United States is working alongside its Gulf allies to advance a framework for peace with Iran. Despite recent progress, he acknowledged that much work remains.
Upon arriving in Abu Dhabi, Rubio expressed that the U.S. has a clear understanding of Iran’s commitments, even though Iranian officials have publicly disagreed with some aspects of the emerging framework.
Rubio stated, “We know what they agreed to.” When asked about Iran’s comments regarding inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), he remarked that regardless of Iran’s internal or domestic politics, they would manage it. However, he emphasized that they are aware of what Iran has agreed to do, and now it is up to them to follow through.
He added that if Iran complies, “the process will move forward,” but warned that if they do not, “the President will have to make some decisions.” Rubio’s comments come as the Trump administration maintains diplomatic contacts in the Gulf region following discussions held in Switzerland over the weekend.
Describing the United Arab Emirates as one of Washington’s strongest partners, Rubio noted that this relationship has deepened over the past decade. He stated, “We came here to listen to them more than to talk. We want to understand their perspectives, especially after the weekend in Switzerland, and ensure that their views are considered in every decision we make as they are our partners.”
When asked whether Gulf allies support the Iran peace framework, Rubio affirmed that all U.S. partners are in favor of peace, but the discussions are still in the early stages. He remarked, “This is an issue that has been ongoing for 47 years. So, I don’t think anyone is claiming it can be resolved in a day and a half.”
Rubio mentioned that a framework now exists, “on which we can make real progress,” and noted that “good foundations have been laid in the last 72 hours.” He stated that any future economic opportunities will depend on decisions made by Iran’s leadership and progress on broader security issues.
He clarified, “This will not be our investment. This will not be our government’s money.” Regarding regional security concerns, Rubio indicated that future discussions will address issues beyond the current Memorandum of Understanding.
In response to questions about Iran-backed groups, he stated that it would be impossible to eliminate regional hostility as long as proxies continue to launch attacks. He said, “As long as Iran’s proxies continue to fire missiles and drones from Iraq and engage in terrorism like Hamas or Hezbollah, hostility and conflict in this region cannot end.”
Rubio stressed that discussions related to Lebanon and Israel should be kept separate from those with Iran. Referring to ongoing talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials in Washington, he asserted that Lebanon’s future should be determined by its own sovereign government.
He concluded that Lebanon’s future belongs to its people, to be decided by their democratically elected government, and that the U.S. will work alongside them.
On the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio reiterated Washington’s stance that this waterway should remain open under international law. He stated that it is an international waterway, and no country is allowed to impose tolls or fees on it.
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