US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday he believes Iranians are serious about reaching an agreement with the United States.
In an interview with Fox News, Rubio said, “I think the Iranians are serious about trying to pull themselves out of the predicament they are sinking into.” He noted that “all the problems Iran has faced, where unrest broke out a few months ago, which was purely economic in nature, are still present.”
Rubio added that “all the problems Iran faced before the outbreak of this conflict remain, and most of them have worsened,” pointing to higher inflation, ongoing drought conditions, and difficulties in paying public sector salaries.
He said the Iranian economy has “completely stagnated,” adding that the country is facing “crippling economic sanctions imposed from around the world.” Rubio further stated that Iran’s problems have deepened, saying it has lost “half of its missiles,” along with the inability to operate factories, and the loss of its naval fleet and air force capabilities, which he said has left the country “weaker and in a worse position than before.”
Based on these factors, Rubio said, “I think they are serious about seeking an exit, specifically in how to buy more time for themselves.” However, the US Secretary of State stressed that “we must not allow them to evade accountability,” describing Iran as “highly skilled negotiators with extensive experience.” He added that any agreement must ensure that Iran is “completely and decisively prevented from rapidly moving toward acquiring a nuclear weapon at any stage.” – Kuna
