US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated Sunday that an announcement on a deal with Iran could come within hours, potentially bringing a formal end to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Speaking to reporters in New Delhi during his first official visit to India, Rubio stated, ‘I do think perhaps there is the possibility that in the next few hours the world will get some good news.’
The emerging agreement, according to Rubio, aims to address US concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway that Iran has largely blocked in response to US-Israeli military operations. ‘The deal would also start a process that can ultimately leave us where the president wants us to be, and that is a world that no longer has to fear or worry about an Iranian nuclear weapon,’ Rubio added.
His remarks followed President Donald Trump’s statement on Saturday that a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz had been ‘largely negotiated.’ In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: ‘An Agreement has been largely negotiated, subject to finalization between the United States of America, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the various other Countries.’ The deal is expected to include confidence-building measures and a roadmap for easing tensions that have escalated into a regional war.
Analysts say the agreement could mark a significant shift in US-Iran relations, which have been strained since the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. The conflict has disrupted global oil supplies, with Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz causing severe economic repercussions. The Strait handles about 20% of the world’s oil transit, making its reopening critical for global markets.
Rubio did not provide details on the timeline for the announcement but expressed optimism. The development comes as international mediators, including Qatar and Oman, have been working to broker a ceasefire. If finalized, the deal could pave the way for broader negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program and regional security.
The US administration has emphasized that any agreement must verifiably ensure Iran does not pursue nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Iran has demanded a full lifting of sanctions and an end to military threats. The proposed deal reportedly includes phased sanctions relief in exchange for halting uranium enrichment and allowing international inspections.
Source: ARY News