Iran Nuclear Deal Unlikely in 72 Hours, Says Secretary of State Rubio

(CNA, New Delhi, May 24) As expectations rise for a deal between Washington and Tehran to end the conflict in the Middle East, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said today that while the deal the US seeks with Iran has the support of some countries in the region, an agreement involving nuclear issues cannot be reached within 72 hours. President Donald Trump earlier posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, that he had instructed US negotiators not to rush into a deal with Iran, stating, "Time is on our side." While visiting New Delhi, Rubio told The New York Times that nuclear negotiations are highly technical and cannot be concluded quickly within 72 hours. He also pointed out that Iran must immediately reopen the Strait of Hormuz, adding, "Then, under an agreed framework, we will begin very serious negotiations on enrichment operations, highly enriched uranium, and their commitment to never possess nuclear weapons." The New York Times reported that Rubio's remarks suggest the Trump administration is prepared to accept an interim deal that would not immediately strip Iran of its ability to produce nuclear weapons. Rubio also spoke about Trump, saying, "He is always inclined to solve this problem through diplomacy, through a deal, so we will do our best to achieve it." He further mentioned, "There are currently 7 or 8 countries in the region that support this plan, and we are ready to move forward with it."