Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Wednesday that the United States is willing to negotiate with Iran but warned that there will be consequences if Tehran continues to violate its commitments. Speaking at the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, Rubio expressed skepticism about Iran's sincerity in negotiations, stating, "The problem we're having right now is they're not serious about talks. If they're serious, we're serious." He emphasized that the U.S. would take necessary actions to protect its interests and those of its allies.
Rubio also addressed Iran's claims over control of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that Tehran has no legal authority to do so and that allowing it would set a dangerous precedent. He stated, "If we create a precedent in the Middle East where a nation-state can decide that they are going to control an international waterway... we have created a very dangerous precedent."
He highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation, asserting that threats to this principle could jeopardize the global economy and the rules that have governed international trade for over 150 years. Rubio's comments came as the U.S. and Iran reached the halfway point of a 60-day negotiating window regarding Iran's nuclear and missile programs, sanctions, and navigation rights in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the ongoing negotiations, tensions remain high, with Iran attacking commercial vessels and U.S. forces conducting strikes against Iranian military targets.
Rubio reiterated that the U.S. is prepared to negotiate but will maintain the option of military force if commitments are not upheld. He stated, "When those commitments are not kept... then there will be consequences." He underscored the necessity of maintaining military readiness to prevent Iran from disrupting vital shipping lanes, noting that a significant portion of the world's energy supply could be at risk without such a threat.