Rubio Discusses NATO, Iran, and Middle East Tensions During Visit to Antalya
In a press conference held at the Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort and Spa in Antalya, Turkey, Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed various global issues, including NATO, Iran, Israel, Russia, Ukraine, and the Palestinian territories.
Rubio emphasized that the strength of NATO depends on its ability to work together and address common security challenges. He highlighted the progress made since 2018, when President Trump challenged member states to increase their defense spending. Rubio stated that by next year's NATO summit, virtually every member will be at or above 2 percent of GDP spent on defense, a significant improvement from previous years.
Regarding Iran, Rubio expressed concern about the country's nuclear ambitions and its support for terrorism in the region. He reiterated President Trump's stance that Iran must walk away from sponsoring terrorism and obtain a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Rubio noted that while there have been offers made by the US, ultimately it is up to the Iranian Supreme Leader to make a decision.
The Secretary of State acknowledged that Iran has enriched uranium at high levels, which poses a significant risk to regional stability. He emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Rubio also highlighted the importance of negotiation and diplomacy in resolving conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.
Rubio's comments on Iran came as tensions between the US and Iran remain high. The US has imposed sanctions on Iranian officials and entities, while Iran continues to enrich uranium despite international warnings.
The visit to Turkey marked a significant moment for Rubio, who is one of the most vocal advocates for stronger NATO ties and more robust action against terrorism. His comments suggest that the Trump administration remains committed to addressing global challenges, including those related to security and nuclear proliferation.