Rubio Offers Diplomacy with Iran but Warns of Alternatives

The United States wants to give diplomacy with Iran another chance, but warns that if negotiations fail, Washington is prepared to pursue "another way". Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the remarks during a visit to New Delhi.

His comments come as hopes have risen for a possible ceasefire after three months of war involving the US, Israel and Iran.

Rubio said Washington was ready to resume negotiations on Iran's nuclear program and on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil and gas trade. The US would give diplomacy every chance of success, he added, but "alternatives" existed if a deal fell through.

President Donald Trump said at the weekend that the two sides had already "largely negotiated" the framework for a peace deal. He stressed, however, that the US blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz would remain in place until a deal was finally concluded, verified and signed. "Both sides must take their time and get it right", he said.

Iran has not yet officially responded. Tasnim news agency reported that the main sticking points remain Tehran's demands for the release of frozen funds and the lifting of sanctions.

(reuters, max)