Rubio reports flatline in US-Iran negotiations

Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters on Sunday that talks with Iran have stalled. He departed for France later that day to join other diplomats at a G7 foreign ministers meeting.

Rubio stated he had no progress to share. He noted that several nations are still engaging with Tehran and offering new ideas, but he said the United States is not close to a diplomatic breakthrough.

The secretary of state explained that President Donald Trump continues to prefer a negotiated end to the conflict. However, Rubio argued that Iranian demands are blocking any deal. He described those demands as unacceptable, outrageous, and detached from reality. He said the current talks have not been productive because of those specific terms.

Rubio outlined the conditions for further US military action. He said Washington would defend itself if American forces or shipping in the region faced a clear and immediate threat. He emphasized that the response depends on the level of the threat and whether Iran is acting against the US or intends to do so.

The official defended the administration's decision to enter the conflict with Iran. He argued that a nuclear Iran poses a danger to Israel, the Middle East, and the entire world. Rubio said Trump confronted a threat that previous presidents did not face. He added that doing the right thing is not always popular, but it is necessary.

Rubio declined to comment on whether the war impacted Republican losses in the recent US midterm elections. He left the question unanswered as he prepared for his trip to Europe.