The BRICS TimesUS Secretary of State Marco Rubio made a firm declaration about Middle Eastern waterways staying open after American forces carried out fresh strikes on Iranian targets as nuclear deal talks continue to inch forward.
US Forces Strike Southern Iran, Rubio Says Straits Will Open No Matter What
Washington moved on two fronts Tuesday militarily and diplomatically. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to reporters after fresh American strikes hit targets in Iran. His message was direct and unambiguous.
“The straits must be open they will be open one way or another they must be open,” Rubio told journalists.
Also Read | Pentagon Confirms Strikes on Missile Launchers and Speedboats in Southern Iran
US Military Confirms Strikes on Missile Launchers and Boats Near Bandar Abbas
US Central Command (CENTCOM) spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins confirmed to reporters that American forces struck missile launchers and speedboats in southern Iran. The targeted vessels were allegedly attempting to lay mines in the waterway.
The night before, reports emerged of large explosions in the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas. No official cause was given at the time.
Also Read | US Forces Strike IRGC Boats and Air Defense Position in Bandar Abbas
Nuclear Deal Talks Move Slowly But Rubio Sees a Path Forward
On Monday, Rubio had already expressed cautious optimism about a temporary nuclear agreement with Iran. He called the chances “good” even as details remained unresolved.
Earlier reports suggested a draft framework not yet approved by Tehran would require Iran to surrender its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Iran, however, pushed back flatly denying any readiness to ship the uranium out.
Also Read | Rubio Says Finalizing an Iran Nuclear Deal Could Still Take Several More Days
Trump Says Deal Is Almost Done Sanctions Relief and Asset Unfreezing on the Table
Former President Donald Trump said Sunday that both sides were nearly at an agreement and that an announcement could come soon. Reports indicate a memorandum of understanding may be signed in the coming days.
The document would bind Iran to a pledge of not developing nuclear weapons. In return, the United States could lift the blockade on Iranian ports. The White House is also reportedly ready to roll back a portion of sanctions freeing Tehran to sell oil on the open market again.
Additionally, the US has signaled willingness to discuss unfreezing Iranian assets but only within a 60-day window after a final deal is signed.
Also Read | Iran Slams Rubio for Touring Taj Mahal, Calls It a Monument of Iranian Genius
Akshay Didwaniya
Pratik Agrawal
Mayur Mohta
