Manila, Jul 22 (V7N) – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the United States remains willing to negotiate over the Middle East conflict but questioned Iran's commitment to diplomacy, warning that Washington will act to protect its interests and those of its allies if necessary.
Speaking at a meeting with representatives of Southeast Asian countries in Manila, the Philippines, on Wednesday (July 22), Rubio said the United States is seeking dialogue to reduce tensions and find a peaceful solution to the crisis.
According to Al Jazeera, Rubio said Washington is prepared to engage in negotiations, but accused Iran of lacking sincerity.
"If they are sincere, we are sincere. But if they are not, we will do whatever is necessary to protect our interests and those of our allies," he said.
Rubio also warned that disruptions to international shipping routes caused by the ongoing conflict pose a serious threat to global stability.
He said any obstruction of key international waterways would endanger the global economy and could set a dangerous precedent for similar actions in other regions, including Asia.
"The global economy is at risk, and such a situation cannot be allowed to happen," Rubio said.
His remarks come amid continued military escalation and diplomatic tensions between the United States and Iran, with concerns growing over the security of major international shipping lanes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
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