Rubio says US open to diplomacy with Iran, but 'they're not serious about talks'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said Washington remains willing to pursue diplomatic solutions with Iran, but stressed that Tehran is not currently serious about negotiations. Speaking at an ASEAN meeting in Manila, Rubio said the US remains "open-minded and always willing to engage in negotiated settlements of differences."

Diplomacy and Consequences

Rubio said Iran has been communicating with Washington both "directly and indirectly," but added: "The problem we're having right now is that they're not serious about talks. If they're serious, we're serious. If they're not, then we will do what is necessary to protect our interests and also the interests of our allies." He warned that Iran could not be allowed to control transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

Escalation and Casualties

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched a joint offensive against Iran in February, with Iran retaliating with strikes on Gulf nations hosting US assets. The US Central Command carried out its 11th consecutive night of strikes on Tuesday. According to Pentagon figures, 18 US service members have been killed and 447 others injured since the campaign began.