New Delhi: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday indicated that a breakthrough in negotiations with Iran to end the ongoing Middle East conflict could come within days, raising hopes of a possible diplomatic resolution amid escalating regional tensions.
Speaking to reporters during his first official visit to India, Rubio said progress had been made in talks with Tehran, though he stopped short of confirming a final agreement. “There might be some news a little later today. There may not be. I hope there will be,” Rubio said, adding that discussions were continuing even as he addressed the media.
“There’s been some progress made. Even as I speak to you now, there’s some work being done,” he stated, suggesting that developments could emerge “later today, tomorrow, or in a couple of days.”
The comments came amid heightened diplomatic activity in the region. Pakistan’s powerful army chief arrived in Tehran in an apparent effort to support mediation efforts, while US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled plans to attend his son’s wedding and remained in Washington due to what officials described as “circumstances pertaining to government.” The sudden decision fuelled speculation that negotiations with Iran had entered a critical phase.
Rubio reiterated Washington’s key demands, including Iran fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz — a strategically vital shipping route that Tehran has sought to control in response to recent US-Israeli military actions — and surrendering its stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
He emphasized that President Trump still preferred a diplomatic solution despite the possibility of renewed military action. “Trump’s preference is always to solve problems such as these through a negotiated diplomatic solution. That’s what we’re working on right now,” Rubio said.
At the same time, he warned that the US remained prepared to act if talks failed. “This problem will be solved, as the president has made clear, one way or the other,” Rubio added.
