U.S. Economic Pressure on Iran Reduces Need for Military Action, Says Rubio

Washington, November 11 (Daily Kiran) : U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the economic pressure on Iran has intensified to the point where President Donald Trump currently sees no need for large-scale military operations. However, he cautioned that the U.S. is prepared to respond militarily if tensions escalate.

Speaking to reporters after a G-7 meeting, Rubio noted that the combined effects of sanctions and blockades are significantly impacting Iran’s oil revenue. He dismissed suggestions that the absence of major military strikes indicates a stalemate, asserting that Iran’s economic losses will continue to grow over time.

Rubio stated, “I can assure you that the economic campaign is so devastating that there is really no need for large military operations at this time.”

He also mentioned that he shared this assessment with U.S. allies during the meeting, which primarily focused on issues related to the Middle East and Ukraine, and included representatives from Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Egypt, and South Korea.

In response to concerns about Iran potentially targeting civilian infrastructure, Rubio issued a stern warning. “If they do that, they will pay a very heavy price,” he said.

The Secretary of State indicated that Iran’s existing oil reserves in the sea are nearing depletion. These shipments had previously passed during a temporary ceasefire when the blockade was briefly lifted.

“Once these reserves are gone, Iran’s oil revenue will virtually come to a halt,” he explained.

Rubio revealed that U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Basant and intelligence agencies are working to close off routes that Iran uses to evade sanctions. According to him, the reduction in income will hamper Iran’s nuclear program and its ability to fund armed affiliates and other activities.

However, independent data confirming the claims of economic damage to Iran were not provided in the available statements.

Rubio emphasized that the U.S. wants to keep the door open for negotiations. Qatar and other nations are continuing mediation efforts, and he noted that the Prime Minister of Qatar had met with President Trump in Washington just a day prior.

Nevertheless, he described Iran’s negotiation terms as unrealistic. Rubio stated that the U.S. will not accept demands for compensation and cash payments. He acknowledged that Iran might have the right to run a civilian nuclear energy program, similar to other countries.

“If a deal is possible, the President will support it first, but it will not be a foolish agreement,” he added.

Addressing concerns about economic impacts on Gulf nations, Rubio rejected claims that their economies are collapsing. He pointed out that despite Iranian drone attacks, oil supplies via commercial vessels continue.

He mentioned that oil movement on some nights has reached 80 to 85 percent of pre-conflict levels, attributing the remaining shortfall to disruptions in Iran’s oil exports.

Rubio called on other nations to assist in ensuring the safety of maritime vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He acknowledged that he received no response when he raised this issue with his G-7 counterparts, suggesting that such commitments may require decisions at the heads of government level.

When asked about linking Lebanon’s future to negotiations with Iran, Rubio disagreed. He stated that the U.S. is mediating directly between Lebanon and Israel, working on systems to monitor compliance with arrangements related to the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the deployment of Lebanese armed forces.