"The agreement with Iran must prevent the development of nuclear weapons," Rubio said
The U.S. has stated that Iran’s new peace initiative appears to be more constructive than expected. At the same time, Washington insists that any potential agreement must ensure that Tehran does not acquire nuclear weapons.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made this statement while commenting on current diplomatic contacts, Fox News reported.
According to him, the approach proposed by Iran involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but the issue of the nuclear program is being postponed to a later stage of negotiations.
Rubio emphasized that the nuclear issue is the root cause of the current tensions, and Iran’s program remains a “key problem.” He also noted that, according to U.S. assessments, Tehran is trying to buy time in the negotiations.
“They are experienced negotiators, and we must ensure that any agreement unequivocally prevents their pursuit of nuclear weapons at any time,” he stated.
The Secretary of State also highlighted the uncertainty within Iran’s negotiating position, suggesting that not all participants in the process may have the necessary authority to make decisions.
Separately, Rubio mentioned the domestic political situation in Iran, expressing doubt about the role and influence of certain figures in the country’s leadership.
Officials in Washington emphasize that the further progress of the negotiations will depend on Iran’s willingness to clearly commit to restrictions on its nuclear program.
The U.S. and Iran remain closer to a potential agreement than it may seem, even despite the breakdown of the second round of talks last weekend. The parties are considering the possibility of concluding an agreement in stages.
On the eve of the talks, French President Emmanuel Macron announced active diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. During a visit to Andorra, he emphasized that he is negotiating with both Donald Trump and the Iranian side to resolve the energy crisis “at its root.”
Iran has presented the United States with a new proposal to resolve the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and end the war. At the same time, Tehran is proposing to postpone nuclear negotiations to a later stage.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran continues to attempt to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that such approaches are unacceptable to the United States and underscored the importance of freedom of navigation in the region.
