Diplomacy remains Trump’s priority as US monitors Iran's regional policies, says Rubio 

Washington / Doha (Web Desk): United States (US) Secretary of State Marco Rubio has underscored that President Donald Trump consistently favours diplomatic engagement over military action in addressing tensions with Iran.

In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Rubio revealed that indirect negotiations between Washington and Tehran are actively ongoing.

Rubio emphasized that direct channels of communication between the two nations have not been severed.

Through the involvement of various countries and mediators, both sides continue to maintain contact as the US works to resolve disputes and reduce tensions through dialogue.

Criticizing Tehran, Rubio accused Iran of diverting national resources away from its citizens’ welfare and instead funding groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. He further denounced Iran’s strategy of intimidating neighboring countries without justification.

Highlighting a broader vision, he noted that the United States would welcome any scenario in which Iran’s leadership becomes more inclusive and representative, adding that if such an opportunity arose, America would move swiftly to end any conflict.

Addressing Iranian claims over the Strait of Hormuz and threats to block the waterway, Rubio firmly rejected them as illegal.

He stressed that no country would accept such restrictions on this critical international trade route, and reaffirmed that the US will ensure its continued freedom of navigation.