America’s Stance on Iran Nuclear Talks: No Breakthrough Yet

WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Marko Rubio told reporters on November 9 that talks with Iran have not yet yielded a significant breakthrough. He attributed the lack of progress to Tehran’s “unacceptable, often irrational and unrealistic” demands.

Addressing journalists at the Homestead Air Reserve Base in Florida before leaving for the G‑7 foreign ministers' meeting in France, Rubio said his view of the negotiations has become clearer over the past week, but “there is no real progress to announce.”

He noted that several countries are in contact with Iran using different proposals, yet none appear ready to forge a comprehensive agreement. "I would not claim we are on the verge of a major success or a deal," he said.

Rubio highlighted that former President Donald Trump consistently sought to resolve disputes through diplomatic means whenever possible. While acknowledging that diplomacy sometimes fails, he affirmed that the United States is prepared to explore any viable diplomatic solution that may emerge.

The secretary also criticized Iran’s negotiation stance, calling it “not only unacceptable but also, in many cases, absurd and shocking.” He recalled similar remarks made at the G‑20 foreign ministers’ gathering in Atlanta on October 31, where he said talks with Iran have never stopped, but he declined to give a timeline for any future progress.

Regarding Iran’s potential nuclear program, Rubio warned that the concern is not limited to the Middle East or Israel; it is a global security issue that directly affects the United States. He said both political parties historically agreed that a nuclear‑armed Iran would pose a severe threat to America, the region, and the world.

When asked about possible military actions, Rubio said the United States would only act to safeguard its forces or maritime traffic if a clear threat materializes. Any response would be calibrated to the level of danger to American personnel and interests.

He declined to comment on how the upcoming U.S. election results might impact foreign policy, stating that his role as secretary is to remain focused on international duties rather than domestic political debates.