U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that reaching a deal with Iran is their top priority, for which they are in continuous contact with Pakistan. He expressed hope that an agreement with Iran will be finalized, Tehran will abandon its nuclear ambitions, and the Strait of Hormuz will remain open.
Progress in Talks with Iran
Speaking after the NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting in Sweden, Marco Rubio said that progress had been made in talks with Iran, but no final conclusion had yet been reached. Responding to a question about a Qatari delegation arriving in Tehran, Rubio highlighted that Pakistan is playing the key mediating role in the Iran-U.S. negotiations.
Pakistan's Role Praised
Rubio further stated that although other countries have their own interests and concerns, Pakistan has played an excellent role throughout the matter. He added that Field Marshal Asim Munir is traveling to Tehran and that they are in constant contact with him.
Concerns Over Strait of Hormuz
The U.S. Secretary of State also said that Washington has serious concerns regarding Iran's stance on the Strait of Hormuz. He mentioned that Iran wants to introduce a 'tolling system' for ships passing through the strait. Rubio emphasized that any such system would be unacceptable and that no country should accept it.
Plan B if Necessary
He further stated that the United States and its allies want an agreement with Iran under which Tehran abandons its nuclear ambitions while the Strait of Hormuz remains open. However, he warned that if Iran refuses to keep this maritime passage open, then a 'Plan B' must be in place.
