Washington, May 22: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding ongoing negotiations with Iran on Thursday. However, he cautioned against excessive expectations, stating that President Donald Trump still has alternative options if diplomacy fails.
While speaking to the media in Miami before departing for India, Rubio emphasized that the government prefers negotiation over confrontation.
“The President’s preference is to secure a good deal. That has always been his choice,” Rubio remarked. He noted that there have been some developments in recent contacts with Tehran.
Referring to Iran’s political structure, he stated, “I believe we have made some progress, but clearly, we are dealing with a system that is somewhat fractured.”
Rubio also mentioned that regional diplomatic activities related to Pakistan could facilitate the talks. “I believe Pakistani officials will be visiting Tehran today, so hopefully, this will advance the discussions,” he added.
He clarified, “I’m not here to guarantee that this will happen, but I am here to tell you that we will do everything possible to see if we can witness any sudden developments in this matter.”
Additionally, the Secretary reiterated the Trump administration’s warnings regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions and missile capabilities. “The President has made it clear that there are other options available. I won’t elaborate on what they are, but everyone knows what they entail.”
Earlier in the discussions, Rubio criticized NATO allies for not taking more action against Iran. He stated, “Many countries in NATO agree with us that Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons and that it poses a threat to the world.”
He pointed out, “They currently do not have missiles capable of reaching the U.S., but they do have missiles that can reach Europe.”
Rubio noted that President Trump has been frustrated with allies who agree with U.S. assessments of Iran but are unwilling to take action. “If all countries agree that Iran should not have nuclear weapons but still do not step forward, it is certainly a concern for us,” he said.
He repeatedly emphasized that diplomacy remains America’s preferred path. “Their choice is always a deal, their choice is always a compromise, their choice is always diplomacy. So let’s see if we can reach that point,” he concluded.
This dialogue comes amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear activities, regional militias, and maritime security in West Asia, leading to renewed diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran.
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