US Secretary of State emphasises Washington’s firm stance as negotiations with Tehran reportedly enter critical phase.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that President Donald Trump is determined not to strike a “bad deal” with Iran, as diplomatic efforts continue to resolve the ongoing crisis involving Tehran’s nuclear programme and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
In remarks widely circulated on Sunday, Rubio sought to project resolve from the Trump administration, saying the US would not be pressured into concessions that could strengthen Iran’s regional position or allow it to advance its nuclear ambitions.
“Trump is ‘not going to make a bad deal’ with Iran,” Rubio said, according to statements accompanying a recent public appearance.
The comments come as reports suggest “significant progress” has been made in indirect or direct talks between Washington and Tehran, with Rubio himself noting that a “pretty solid” proposal is on the table. However, he cautioned that no final agreement has been reached.
Rubio Says Trump Won’t Accept Weak Iran Nuclear Deal:
The Trump administration has faced criticism from some conservative hawks who argue against any negotiated settlement with Iran, preferring a more confrontational approach following recent military escalations. Rubio pushed back against such voices, insisting that while diplomacy remains the preference, the US maintains other options.
Analysts say the remarks are aimed at reassuring both domestic audiences and regional allies-particularly Israel and Gulf states-that any potential agreement would not repeat what many in the current administration view as the shortcomings of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Iran has long denied seeking nuclear weapons while insisting on its right to peaceful nuclear technology. The country has been under intense pressure following months of conflict that led to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments.
Rubio, who is on a visit to India, also highlighted that Tehran would be mistaken if it believed it could exploit domestic US political pressures or rising energy prices to extract favourable terms.
Iran Deal Talks Could Ease Hormuz Crisis, Prevent Wider Conflict:
A successful deal could pave the way for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, easing global energy market concerns, and potentially de-escalating tensions across West Asia. Failure, however, risks further military confrontation.
The Biden-era nuclear agreement was abandoned by Trump during his first term in 2018. His return to the White House has raised questions about whether a new, more stringent framework can be achieved.