Rubio says Iran deal could take days as US launches fresh strikes in West Asia Conflict
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that negotiations for a potential deal with Iran could take “a few days,” even as the United States carried out fresh military strikes targeting Iranian boats and missile launch sites.
Speaking to reporters while travelling from Jaipur, Rubio said the Strait of Hormuz must remain open, stressing that it would be reopened “one way or another” as part of ongoing diplomatic and military pressure.
US Central Command confirmed that it had conducted what it described as defensive strikes aimed at protecting American forces, including targeting boats allegedly preparing to lay mines and missile infrastructure in southern Iran.
The developments come amid continued tensions in the region, even as diplomatic efforts continue in parallel. Iranian officials said a ceasefire has been in place since early April, but both sides have continued limited military actions.
Rubio said the US remains open to diplomacy but warned that alternative measures remain on the table if negotiations fail. He added that a “solid framework” is currently being discussed, focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and limiting escalation around nuclear concerns.
Iranian officials, however, have maintained that nuclear discussions will only take place after a broader framework agreement is reached. Tehran has also said there is no imminent agreement with Washington.
According to reports, parallel talks involving Iranian officials and regional mediators in Doha have focused on issues such as the Strait of Hormuz, frozen Iranian assets, and limits on enriched uranium stockpiles.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route, has seen reduced maritime traffic since the escalation of conflict, contributing to volatility in global oil prices.
Despite ongoing clashes and strikes, both sides continue to signal willingness to keep diplomatic channels open, though major gaps remain on key issues such as sanctions relief, nuclear commitments, and regional security arrangements.
