Rubio Says US Open to Iran Talks Amid Escalating Conflict

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, that the United States remains open to diplomacy to end the conflict with Iran but accused Tehran of not engaging seriously in talks, as military strikes and threats to global shipping lanes escalate. Rubio made the remarks in Manila, where he was attending a meeting of Southeast Asian foreign ministers.

The diplomatic impasse persists despite a reported proposal from international mediators for a 10-day ceasefire aimed at preserving an interim U.S.-Iran agreement reached in June. Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni recently visited Pakistan, a key mediator, to request continued diplomatic efforts. Rubio acknowledged negotiations are still possible but warned the U.S. would continue military action to protect its interests and those of its allies if Iran refuses to negotiate. He framed the conflict as a challenge to global norms, arguing that allowing a nation to control an international waterway, charge tolls, and attack non-compliant ships would set a dangerous precedent that could affect other regions.

Military operations have intensified on both sides. The U.S. military conducted its 11th consecutive...