The United States has reiterated its willingness to pursue diplomacy with Iran, even as military tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is prepared for meaningful negotiations if Tehran demonstrates genuine commitment to a diplomatic solution.
Speaking ahead of his trip to the Philippines for a meeting of foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Rubio said the United States continues to favor diplomacy over prolonged conflict.
"If Iran shows seriousness, the United States is ready for a diplomatic solution," Rubio said.
He added that Washington has consistently sought "real and fruitful diplomacy" and believes Tehran is receiving clear signals that negotiations remain possible.
According to Rubio, Iran is also receiving indications of a desire for renewed negotiations despite the ongoing military confrontation.
Rubio warns Iran over economic pressure
The US Secretary of State said Iran is currently facing a severe economic crisis, warning that the situation could worsen if diplomatic efforts fail. He cautioned that continued refusal to engage constructively would not work in Tehran's favor.
"If diplomatic efforts fail, the situation will not be in Tehran's favor," Rubio said.
Rubio accused Iran of attempting to use the Strait of Hormuz as leverage during the ongoing Middle East conflict.
"It’s clear that Iran, at least some people in Iran, want to control the straits and hold that as leverage against the world," he told reporters.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes, carrying a significant share of global oil and gas exports. Any disruption to maritime traffic through the waterway has the potential to affect international energy markets.
US defends military action
Rubio said recent US military operations against Iran were carried out in response to attacks on commercial shipping. He stressed that Washington would continue taking necessary measures to safeguard international maritime routes.
"The United States will do and continue to do what it needs to, to protect global shipping," Rubio said.
Rubio calls on allies to share burden
The US Secretary of State also urged other countries to contribute more actively to protecting maritime security in the Gulf. He said allies should provide military equipment, financial assistance or other resources to help ensure the safety of commercial shipping.
"Other countries need to begin to step up and provide, whether it's hardware or finances, to help carry that burden," Rubio said.
Despite the ongoing exchange of military attacks between the United States and Iran, Rubio emphasized that diplomacy remains Washington's preferred path.
He reiterated that the United States remains open to meaningful engagement with Tehran, provided Iran demonstrates a genuine willingness to negotiate.
The remarks come as tensions remain high across the Middle East, with the Strait of Hormuz continuing to serve as a focal point of the dispute due to its critical role in global energy supplies and international trade.
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