United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday, July 23, 2026, that Iran is privately pressing Washington for a deal to end the ongoing conflict but is not yet ready to accept one. Speaking to reporters during an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting of foreign ministers in Manila, Philippines, Rubio stated, “Iran is begging us, both directly and indirectly, ‘Let’s do a deal. Let’s talk.’”

Rubio emphasized that Washington's central objective remains a denuclearized Iran, warning, “Our number one interest and the threat they pose to the world is these lunatics in possession of a nuclear weapon, and that’s not going to happen.”

He also denied claims that Russia has been assisting Iran with its weapons programs. Regarding Yemen’s Houthi movement, Rubio said they had been “snookered” by Iran into targeting Saudi Arabia-linked shipping after previously avoiding direct involvement in the conflict. He expressed hope that the Houthis would cease these actions, stating, “They shouldn’t really do that.”

Commenting on the Houthis' recent silence about Iran, analyst Alkinani suggested this may indicate the group is reassessing its position. He added that Rubio’s remarks might signal a US willingness to negotiate with the Houthis if they seek a deal independent of Tehran.

The statements come as strikes have hit Iran for a 12th consecutive night, raising concerns about the conflict's impact on regional stability and ASEAN’s efforts to address broader issues.

Sources