Rubio says US-Iran deal may take more time after strikes in southern Iran

Marco Rubio said Tuesday that negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement between the United States and Iran may require more time despite ongoing diplomatic contacts. According to Reuters, Rubio made the remarks one day after US forces carried out strikes against targets in southern Iran, which Washington described as defensive operations. Rubio defended the recent US military action by saying the Strait of Hormuz must remain open “by any means necessary” because of its importance to global trade and energy supplies. Despite a ceasefire that has largely held since early April, United States Central Command said Monday that American forces conducted fresh strikes to protect US troops from “threats posed by Iranian forces.” Rubio had earlier told reporters in New Delhi that Washington would continue giving diplomacy an opportunity before considering dealing with Iran “in another way.” Fox News and other US media recently reported that American forces struck missile launch positions and boats allegedly linked to Iranian mine-laying operations in southern Iran. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have remained high over Iran’s nuclear activities, maritime security in the Gulf and regional military confrontations involving Iran-backed armed groups. The post Rubio says US-Iran deal may take more time after strikes in southern Iran appeared first on Khaama Press.