Rubio: We Want to Reach a Diplomatic Solution with Iran

SadaNews: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced his country's desire to reach a diplomatic solution to the current crisis with Iran, revealing that Iranian officials have been in contact with the U.S. side in an attempt to negotiate the ongoing escalation.

Rubio explained that Washington receives these attempts with a degree of skepticism regarding the feasibility of the talks, citing Iran's failure to adhere to previous commitments. At the same time, he affirmed that Iran is facing a real dilemma, especially in light of rising inflation rates and the severe economic consequences brought about by the ongoing escalation.

Regarding the security of maritime corridors, the U.S. Secretary of State emphasized that his country is making diligent efforts to restrict Iran's ability to target ships and threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, confirming the execution of defensive operations to protect the freedom of maritime navigation. Rubio called on Iran to commit to keeping the strait open and ensuring the safety of commercial movement, which is affected by many countries, reaffirming Washington's firm stance against any nation's control over maritime passages and water bodies worldwide while continuing to protect international navigation and trade.

In this context, Rubio addressed China's position on the crisis, noting that China has not taken any steps that would change the course of the war with Iran and has, at times, been cooperative. He concluded his remarks by affirming that Washington, while continuing to defend ships and deter Iranian attempts targeting commercial movement in this vital waterway, remains open to negotiation if genuine will and serious commitment from the other side are present.