Washington, Apr 1 (SANA) U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that the United States is approaching a decisive phase in its conflict with Iran, adding that the administration has set a clear endpoint for its military operations.
In an interview with Fox News, Rubio said the objective of the campaign is to prevent Tehran from developing long-range intercontinental missile capabilities, and added that President Donald Trump’s policies are aimed at limiting Iran’s strategic ambitions.
Rubio said Washington would not accept negotiations being used to delay outcomes, adding that military operations would continue unless an agreement is reached that safeguards U.S. and allied security interests.
He said Trump has a “clear vision of deterrence” and would not allow what he described as past shortcomings in handling Iran’s nuclear and missile programs to be repeated.
Rubio also noted that most NATO countries have shown reluctance to engage directly in the conflict.
He added: “Once the U.S.-Iran conflict ends, we will reassess the role of the alliance and whether it still serves our interests or has become a one-sided path where America protects Europe without receiving equivalent support from its allies.”
Tensions have continued since February 28, amid reports of Iranian attacks resulting in casualties and material damage in several countries in the region.
R.D
