Rubio says Trump set no timeframe for Iran talks but military option remains open

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Saturday that President Donald Trump had not set a deadline for negotiations with Iran, while not dismissing the possibility of military action. Speaking at the conclusion of the G20 foreign ministers meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, Rubio expressed uncertainty about the timeline for Qatar-led talks aimed at resolving tensions between the US and Iran.

He emphasized that any agreement must not jeopardize US national security or fail to address Washington's core concerns. Rubio confirmed that the US remains the world's most capable military power, with the resources to execute successful military strikes if necessary, but reiterated the administration's preference for diplomatic solutions.

The Iranian regime, Rubio warned, is threatening the energy infrastructure of its Gulf neighbors as a means of pressuring the US. He also noted that Iran is targeting regional shipping and airspace daily, emphasizing that US forces are actively engaged in protecting these assets. Rubio reaffirmed the US defense commitments to Saudi Arabia but did not specify whether American forces would participate in any Saudi offensive action against the Houthis in Yemen.

He criticized the limited international support for protecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, attributing the burden primarily to the US. Regarding the G20, Rubio faced criticism for inviting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, but defended the move, stating that Russia should have a voice in negotiations for Ukraine's peace.