Rubio defends Iran war as 440.9 kg of enriched uranium remains a threat
The Secretary of State argues the conflict was a necessary security measure despite its impact on gas prices and the recent Republican election losses.
By Julia Wang ·
Iran currently holds 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, a stockpile that Secretary of State Marco Rubio says justifies the ongoing war even if the public approval ratings are low.
Speaking from Homestead Air Reserve Base in Florida on Sunday, Rubio defended President Donald Trump's decision to launch military action against the Islamic Republic. He stated that the administration identified a real nuclear threat and acted to stop Tehran from building a weapon, noting that such security measures are often unpopular but required.
The defense came as Republicans faced a major electoral setback in Tuesday's elections. Voters handed control of Congress to Democrats, a result many analysts linked to the cost of living and higher gasoline prices caused by the conflict. Rubio did not comment directly on the election results but addressed the criticism of the war's economic impact.
The war has disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway that previously carried one-fifth of the world's oil supply. These disruptions have raised energy costs for American households, a factor that contributed to the Republican losses. Rubio argued that the administration prioritized long-term security over short-term popularity.
Rubio's comments placed him at odds with Vice President JD Vance. Vance posted on social media last week, largely blaming the war for the party's electoral defeat. Trump addressed the rift on Sunday, agreeing with Vance that the war was a factor in the losses but adding that his vice president should have also insisted it was the right choice.
The President told reporters that the decision to fight would be remembered as one of the best in history. He warned that if Iran had acquired a nuclear weapon, the consequences for the world would have been severe.
Diplomatic efforts continue as mediators try to revive talks between the United States and Iran. Rubio said the U.S. prefers a diplomatic solution but described current negotiations as unproductive because Iranian demands are unrealistic. He noted that Iran is reviewing proposals from Qatar, its chief mediator, but has been unwilling to negotiate until several core conditions are met.
Tehran demands the end of the U.S. naval blockade, the lifting of sanctions, the unfreezing of assets, and compensation for war damage. Iran also wants an end to hostilities in the region, including Israeli operations in Lebanon. Rubio said the U.S. is not close to a breakthrough but is prepared to continue limited strikes if necessary.
The U.S. military fired on and disabled a commercial ship on Saturday that it said was trying to breach the naval blockade. The administration has also identified 38 bridges as potential targets if major military action resumes. Rubio asserted that the U.S. has the right to defend its forces and shipping if a clear threat emerges.
