Marco Rubio hints at possible breakthrough as US, Iran talks show signs of progress

NEW DELHI – The United States on Monday signaled possible progress in ongoing negotiations with Iran, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said developments could emerge soon regarding efforts to ease tensions and advance diplomatic talks between the two countries. Speaking to the reporters during his official visit to India, Marco Rubio said discussions were continuing and suggested that an announcement could come in the near future. “Work is still in progress. We thought there might be some news last night, maybe today,” he said while traveling from New Delhi to Agra. Rubio stated that the talks involve broader regional security concerns, including efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and initiate serious negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. He expressed hope that diplomacy would ultimately succeed. The US secretary of state also stressed that President Donald Trump was not prepared to rush into an agreement without securing acceptable terms for Washington. “The president is not going to make a bad deal, and we are giving diplomacy every chance before considering other options,” Rubio said. Meanwhile, Iranian officials maintained that Tehran would not surrender to pressure or threats but remained open to negotiations based on mutual respect. Iranian parliamentary spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei said Iran’s approach in diplomacy would mirror actions taken by the other side, emphasizing that meaningful negotiations were the only path toward an agreement. Iran’s Parliament also reelected Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as speaker amid the continuing diplomatic discussions with Washington. The negotiations come after months of heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz affected global oil shipments and energy markets. Reports indicate that both countries are discussing possible measures related to maritime security, sanctions relief, and Iran’s uranium enrichment programme. Although officials from both sides have acknowledged o