Secretary Marco Rubio emphasized the ongoing threat posed by Iran to the United States during a February 26, 2026, briefing. Rubio described Iran as a longstanding security concern, noting that while the country is temporarily pausing nuclear enrichment, it continues to pursue the capabilities necessary to eventually develop nuclear weapons.

Rubio also highlighted Iran’s growing ballistic missile program, which recent reports indicate now exceeds 3,000 missiles. He framed these developments as part of a persistent strategy by Tehran to expand its military reach and influence across the region, posing long-term risks to U.S. interests and allies.

The Secretary’s comments coincide with ongoing U.S.-Iran talks in Geneva, focused on nuclear weapons and missile limitations. Rubio’s remarks echo President Donald Trump’s recent State of the Union address, in which the president warned that the United States would take action against Iran if necessary to prevent nuclear proliferation and safeguard regional stability.

By underscoring both the nuclear and missile dimensions of Iran’s threat, Rubio’s briefing reflects Washington’s dual approach of diplomatic engagement paired with readiness to counter potential escalation. Analysts note that sustained vigilance, combined with international negotiations, remains central to managing the evolving Iranian challenge and protecting U.S. strategic interests in the Middle East.