MANILA — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said Washington remains willing to negotiate with Iran and resolve outstanding disputes through diplomacy, but accused Tehran of not showing genuine commitment to talks.
Speaking in Manila, Rubio said the United States was prepared to engage if Iran approached negotiations seriously.
“If they’re serious, we’re serious,” Rubio said, adding that Washington is open to finding a diplomatic solution.
However, he warned that if Iran does not demonstrate a willingness to negotiate, the United States would take measures it considers necessary to protect its interests and those of its allies.
Rubio’s comments come amid continued tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme, regional military influence, sanctions, and broader security concerns in the Middle East.
The remarks highlight the fragile state of US-Iran relations, where both sides have repeatedly expressed interest in diplomacy while remaining deeply divided over key issues.
Regional governments, including Egypt and Gulf states, have called for renewed dialogue, warning that further escalation between the two countries could destabilize the wider Middle East, threaten energy routes, and increase risks around strategic waterways.
Iran has previously accused Washington of applying pressure through sanctions and military threats, while U.S. officials have continued to demand guarantees regarding Iran’s nuclear activities and regional actions.
Analysts say the possibility of renewed negotiations depends on whether both sides can overcome years of mistrust and agree on a framework that addresses nuclear, security, and economic issues.
