Rubio defends unpopular Iran war as necessary to block nuclear threat
The Secretary of State acknowledged the conflict's low approval ratings while rejecting the idea that a diplomatic breakthrough is near, even as Trump signaled openness to a strong agreement.
By Harper Collins ·
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the American military campaign against Iran on Sunday, stating that the conflict is necessary despite its unpopularity among voters. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Rubio said President Donald Trump identified a real threat in Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and acted to prevent the country from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Rubio characterized the decision as addressing difficult security challenges for the United States, noting that such actions are not always popular but are required.
The remarks came after the Republican Party suffered a heavy defeat in the midterm elections held last week. Trump told reporters that many people were unhappy with Vice President JD Vance for blaming the war for the losses. However, the president said he agreed with Vance and had no regrets about the decision. Trump predicted the move would be remembered as one of the best the country ever made, warning that a nuclear-armed Tehran would destabilize the world.
In a phone interview with CNN, Trump indicated a willingness to reach a deal. He said that if Washington sees progress and Tehran signs a strong agreement, it is highly unlikely that strikes will need to resume. Rubio, however, cautioned against expecting an immediate end to the fighting. He said he would not describe current negotiations as being on the verge of a breakthrough, arguing that Iranian demands are often unacceptable and unrealistic.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded by telling the White House it was time to make its own decision. Araghchi pointed to the midterm results, saying American voters had made their choice. He reiterated that Tehran’s two-day proposal remained available, which included an end to the war on all fronts. Araghchi added that if the U.S. chose war, its battle-hardened warriors would rain down hell.
Iran has offered to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping within two days if the United States accepts its conditions. The waterway serves as a critical route for global energy supplies. Trump is scheduled to host Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani at the White House on Monday. Tehran is reviewing Qatari proposals aimed at bridging differences with Washington, according to the Associated Press.
Rubio also dismissed recent speculation that he plans to step down as the country's top diplomat to pursue higher office in 2028. He described the rumors as unfounded. The Secretary of State's comments underscore the administration's current strategy of maintaining military pressure while keeping diplomatic channels open through regional mediators.
