US Secretary of State Rubio Claims America Open to Diplomatic Solution with Iran

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has asserted that the United States is receptive to a diplomatic resolution with Iran. Speaking in an effort to influence public opinion in his country, which is grappling with significant challenges, particularly rising energy prices, following costly military actions against Iran, Rubio claimed that Iran was expected to issue a statement a week prior indicating the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened and shipping attacks would cease. Instead, he alleged, three vessels were attacked. He stressed that Iran’s conduct must change for American behavior to evolve.

The U.S. Secretary of State, without acknowledging recent incursions into Iranian territory that contravene international law and the Islamabad memorandum, further contended that Iran continues to send signals indicating a desire for consultation and negotiation. However, he stated that U.S. responses are dictated by Iran’s behavior, which he characterized as launching missiles and drones at ships. Rubio asserted that strategic straits are meant to be open, free from tolls and attacks, and free from the actions being taken against these vessels. He questioned the efficacy of any agreement if its terms are violated, stating, “If they violate the terms of the memorandum, you cannot have a memorandum that is functional.” He concluded by reiterating, “What I am saying is that the United States is always open to a diplomatic solution, and we have tried multiple times with Iran and will continue to do so.”