U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, responding to remarks by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi regarding an “eye for an eye” policy, stated: “Donald Trump’s policy is a head for an eye.”
Speaking on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, the Philippines, Rubio emphasized that the Islamic Republic has paid a “very heavy price” for its actions and that this trend will continue. He further claimed that Iran’s industrial infrastructure and defense capabilities “have been heavily damaged.”
Addressing Tehran’s stance on negotiations, the U.S. Secretary of State said: “Despite all the rhetoric, the Islamic Republic is suffering severe damage and is sending messages daily through third countries seeking negotiations and a deal.”
However, he noted that the Islamic Republic is not yet ready to accept an agreement that Washington considers acceptable. Rubio added: “They will pay the cost for this. Iran’s costs increase every night until they come to their senses.”
Rubio also stressed that the primary U.S. concern is preventing the Islamic Republic from acquiring nuclear weapons rather than pursuing regime change. Referring to Donald Trump’s position, he remarked: “The U.S. President believes the Iranian people deserve better leadership.”
