Washington: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Iranian officials have contacted the US in an attempt to negotiate the current escalation, and that the US is open to negotiations. Rubio highlighted the US’s cautious approach to these talks due to Iran’s history of not honoring its commitments.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Rubio expressed concerns about Iran’s economic predicament, citing inflation and the impact of the ongoing escalation on the country’s economic situation. He noted recent attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the US’s efforts to limit Iran’s ability to target vessels and threaten maritime navigation. Rubio stated that the US would not tolerate any nation attempting to control global maritime passages, urging Iran to guarantee the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

He also mentioned China’s role in the conflict, stating that while China has been cooperative at times, it has not taken significant actions to alter the course of the conflict with Iran.