Rubio: Talks with Iran Focused on Nuclear Program; Disputes Over Ballistic Missiles Persist

According to Khabaronline, Marco Rubio told reporters early Thursday that “the negotiations will primarily focus on the nuclear program.” He added that the president prefers progress to be achieved through diplomacy and expressed hope that tangible results can be reached.

However, Rubio stressed that Tehran has shown no willingness to negotiate over its missile capabilities, describing the issue as “a major problem.” Referring to what he called Iran’s “vast ballistic missile arsenal,” he claimed these systems pose a threat to U.S. interests and its allies.

According to Rubio, some of Iran’s missiles are capable of reaching parts of Europe, while U.S. bases in the region — including those in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain — are also within range. He further argued that Iran possesses naval assets that could threaten maritime navigation and U.S. naval forces.

The Secretary of State also alleged that Iran is seeking to develop intercontinental ballistic missile capabilities, pointing to the country’s satellite launch efforts as part of that trajectory. In addition, he asserted that countries pursuing purely peaceful nuclear programs can meet their energy needs by importing fuel and operating conventional reactors. A state with no intention of developing nuclear weapons, he argued, would have no need for “underground enrichment.”

Rubio noted that, ultimately, issues beyond the nuclear file — including the missile program — will have to be addressed. However, he cautioned that without progress on the nuclear front, achieving breakthroughs on other contentious matters will be even more difficult.