U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Monday that an agreement to end the war with Iran could be reached today, while President Donald Trump defended the ongoing negotiations.
Negotiations and Rhetoric
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on Monday, May 25, that a deal to end the war with Iran could be signed within the day, while emphasizing Israel’s right to defend itself, according to France 24.
President Donald Trump took to TruthSocial to address critics, asserting that the agreement is not yet finalized and dismissing opponents as “losers.” He further claimed his deal would be “good and appropriate,” distancing it from the previous Obama-era agreement.
The Nuclear Impasse
The core dispute in the conflict, which began on February 28, remains Iran’s nuclear program. While the U.S. and Israel aimed to dismantle these capabilities, Iran’s strategy of storing enriched uranium in deep underground facilities has complicated removal efforts.
Conditions for Serious Dialogue
Rubio stated Sunday that the U.S. is prepared to initiate formal talks regarding Iran’s nuclear program, but only after Tehran reopens the Strait of Hormuz. During a visit to India, the Secretary of State noted that the nuclear issue cannot be resolved within 72 hours.
The New York Times observed that the administration appears ready to accept an initial agreement that does not immediately resolve Iran’s potential for nuclear weapon production. Meanwhile, Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei ordered on Friday that all highly enriched uranium must remain within the country.
