Rubio's Taj Mahal visit draws Iranian criticism

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on Monday, drawing a sharp response from the Iranian consulate in Hyderabad, which accused his government of threatening Iranian civilization while standing at a monument built by Persian architects for an emperor’s Iranian wife.

Rubio, accompanied by his wife Jeanette and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, spent about an hour at the 17th century marble mausoleum, describing it as “one of the love treasures of the world” in the visitor’s book. He told reporters it was important to show respect to the culture of the countries he visits. The couple posed for photographs on the bench where Princess Diana was famously photographed in 1992.

The Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Hyderabad posted on X alongside a photo of the Rubios at the site: “If Rubio knew the history or architecture, he would not have posed for a picture here. This monument was built out for the love of emperor’s Iranian wife, crafted by the genius of Iranian architects. Meanwhile, his government today threatens to wipe out Iranian civilization, insulting other civilizations.”

The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by Mughal...