Secretary of State Marco Rubio forcefully dismissed speculation that President Donald Trump would ever agree to a nuclear deal allowing Iran to emerge stronger or closer to obtaining nuclear weapons capability. Speaking from the podium, Rubio declared that the idea Trump would support an agreement benefiting Tehran’s nuclear ambitions was “absurd,” pointing to the president’s record of aggressive sanctions, military pressure, and unwavering support for Israel as proof that the administration remains fully committed to preventing Iran from becoming a nuclear power.

Rubio’s remarks came amid renewed diplomatic efforts surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and discussions tied to regional stability, including the future of the Strait of Hormuz. While expressing cautious optimism that negotiations could produce progress within hours, Rubio emphasized that any agreement under the Trump administration would have to permanently block Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon and ensure Tehran could not exploit diplomacy to rebuild military leverage or destabilize the Middle East further.

Supporters of the administration praised Rubio’s comments as a clear signal that the White House is maintaining a hardline national security posture after years of criticism toward previous Iran policies under Democratic leadership. Pro-Israel advocates also welcomed the statement, arguing that Trump’s strategy of pressure, deterrence, and strong military coordination with Israel has fundamentally changed the negotiating environment and forced Iran into talks from a far weaker position than in past administrations.