Washington expects Iran's response on proposals today, says US Secretary of State Marco Rubio

Washington (Web Desk): US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed hope that Iran will present a serious proposal in ongoing discussions with the United States.

Speaking at a press conference on global affairs, Rubio said his meeting with Pope Leo was positive.

He also stated that the United States is ready to deliver additional aid to Cuba, but claimed that cooperation from the Cuban side has been lacking.

Rubio said the final decision regarding NATO troop deployment would be made by US President Donald Trump, adding that plans for reforms within NATO had already been under discussion.

Commenting on US-Iran relations, the American secretary of state said Washington was expecting a response from Iran to US proposals later in the day, but no formal reply had been received so far.

He expressed optimism that Tehran would come forward with a serious offer that could pave the way for meaningful negotiations.

Marco Rubio further stated that “Operation Freedom” and “Operation Epic Fury” were different types of operations, adding that the right to take defensive measures remains intact even during a ceasefire.

He warned that any attack on American interests would require a response, stressing that Iran would not be allowed to gain control of the Strait of Hormuz or place naval mines in key maritime routes.

The US secretary of state also claimed that after attacks on American naval vessels by Iran, the United States delivered an effective response and would continue to respond strongly to any future aggression.