US Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed on Wednesday that the United States remains open to initiating negotiations to resolve disputes related to the Middle East conflict. He emphasized Washington's readiness to engage in dialogue and negotiation with Iran to reach a settlement.
Speaking at a meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers, Rubio stated that the main obstacle to resuming diplomatic efforts is that Iran is "not serious about the talks," arguing that Tehran's lack of seriousness hinders any progress toward a political resolution.
He added that the United States is still willing to communicate and negotiate if the necessary will to resolve disputes is present, as regional tensions continue amid military escalation in the area.
In another part of his remarks, Rubio warned that blocking or disrupting international waterways sets a highly dangerous precedent that could have repercussions in other parts of the world, including Asia.
He noted that any threat to freedom of navigation not only affects the Middle East but also impacts the global economy and international supply chains, stressing that the rules of trade and international commerce are under threat, and such a situation cannot be allowed.
Rubio's statements come amid ongoing tensions regarding navigation security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most crucial waterways for transporting oil and gas, amid repeated US calls to maintain freedom of navigation and prevent any actions that could impact global trade.