May 26, 2026, 06:10 GMT
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio has cautioned that a potential Iran deal may take several days to finalize, even as Washington escalates military pressure. The U.S. launched fresh strikes on southern Iran, targeting missile batteries and mine-laying vessels in the Gulf. The Pentagon framed the action as necessary to secure maritime routes, while Tehran denounced the attacks as proof of American bad faith during ongoing negotiations.
Rubio, speaking to reporters in Washington, emphasized that while progress is being made in talks, “complex verification measures” and political hurdles remain. His remarks highlight the tension between diplomatic timelines and military realities, with negotiators in Qatar attempting to bridge gaps on sanctions relief and missile restrictions.
Global markets reacted swiftly: Brent crude rose above $97/barrel, reflecting fears that continued strikes could derail talks and prolong instability in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that the dual track of negotiation and confrontation risks undermining trust, with Iran insisting that sanctions relief must precede any substantive concessions.
(Source – Reuters)
—Agencies
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