United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran poses a grave and long-standing threat to the United States that extends beyond its nuclear ambitions. Speaking ahead of scheduled talks in Geneva, he warned that although Iran is not currently enriching uranium, it is attempting to rebuild elements of its nuclear program after previous strikes 'obliterated' key facilities.

Rubio emphasized that Iran’s large arsenal of ballistic missiles and its naval capabilities present additional dangers to American forces, regional partners, and shipping routes. He highlighted threats to United States bases in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain, stating that these conventional weapons are designed to target America and its citizens.

He also criticized Iran’s refusal to discuss its missile program during negotiations, calling it a serious concern. Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump echoed the warning, saying there is evidence Iran is attempting to reconstitute its nuclear program and reaffirming that the United States will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, while leaving open both diplomatic and other options.