MANILA: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Iran will face increasingly severe consequences if tensions with the United States continue, saying President Donald Trump’s approach is based on a policy of strong retaliation.
Speaking to reporters in Manila, Rubio said the United States had honored its commitments in previous negotiations with Iran, but claimed that Tehran was currently unwilling to move forward with a new agreement.
“The United States upheld its side of the deal,” Rubio said. “At this moment, Iran is not prepared to reach an agreement with the United States, though it may change its position in the coming days.”
He cautioned that if the current situation persists, Iran will pay a heavy price with every passing night, underscoring Washington’s increasingly tough stance toward Tehran.
Trump’s Policy of Strong Retaliation
Rubio described President Trump’s policy as one of decisive retaliation, saying the administration would respond firmly to actions it considers threats to US interests and regional security.
According to the US Secretary of State, the Trump administration remains open to diplomacy but expects Iran to demonstrate a genuine commitment to negotiations.
Claims About Negotiations
Rubio further claimed that every time progress is made toward an agreement between Washington and Tehran, elements within Iran’s leadership undermine the process.
He alleged that Iran continues to seek dialogue with the United States through both direct and indirect channels.
“Iran is still making direct and indirect requests for a deal,” Rubio said, while arguing that Tehran’s leadership has repeatedly failed to capitalize on opportunities for improved relations with the international community.
Criticism of Iran’s Leadership
The US Secretary of State also criticized Iran’s ruling leadership, claiming the country has the potential to become one of the wealthiest nations in the Middle East because of its abundant natural resources.
According to Rubio, however, Iran’s economic potential has been limited by decisions made by its leadership.
He alleged that Iranian authorities prioritize financial support for regional armed groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis, rather than focusing on domestic economic development and improving the living standards of Iranian citizens.
Rubio accused these groups of contributing to regional instability through militant activities, reiterating Washington’s long-standing position on organizations designated by the United States as terrorist groups.
Continued Regional Tensions
Rubio’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, with diplomatic efforts remaining uncertain despite periodic reports of indirect contacts between the two countries.
Washington has repeatedly stated that it prefers a diplomatic resolution to disputes over Iran’s regional activities and nuclear program, while also maintaining that it is prepared to increase pressure if negotiations fail to produce results.
Iranian officials have consistently defended their regional policies and rejected many US allegations, while insisting that any future agreement must respect Iran’s sovereignty and national interests.
Rubio’s latest comments signal that the Trump administration intends to maintain its policy of combining diplomatic outreach with sustained political, economic, and strategic pressure as relations between Washington and Tehran remain strained.
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