U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says there are “some good signs” that a diplomatic agreement between the United States and Iran could be within reach, offering fresh hope for ending months of escalating military tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking to reporters before departing for meetings with NATO foreign ministers in Sweden, Rubio said negotiations are moving forward but cautioned that he does not want to be “overly optimistic” because of divisions within Iran’s political system.
The comments come as a fragile ceasefire between Iran, the United States, and Israel remains in place following weeks of military escalation earlier this year. Although active fighting has slowed since early April, both sides have repeatedly warned that hostilities could resume if diplomatic efforts collapse.
Rubio confirmed that Pakistani representatives were expected to travel to Iran as part of ongoing diplomatic coordination efforts aimed at reducing tensions and exploring possible pathways toward a broader agreement. Pakistan has increasingly emerged as a regional intermediary during the crisis.
However, Rubio strongly warned that any attempt by Iran to impose tolls or restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would severely damage chances for a diplomatic breakthrough.
“No one in the world is in favour of the tolling system,” Rubio said, calling the idea “unacceptable” and “completely illegal.” He added that any move to restrict international shipping through the strategic waterway would make a diplomatic settlement “unfeasible.”
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, handling nearly one-fifth of global oil exports. The route has remained under heavy tension since Iran effectively restricted parts of the waterway after U.S. and Israeli strikes targeted Iranian facilities earlier this year. The confrontation intensified further when Washington expanded measures against Iranian ports and shipping networks.
Analysts say the outcome of current negotiations could have major consequences for global oil markets, regional security, and the broader balance of power across the Middle East.
Despite cautious optimism, Western officials remain concerned that internal divisions within Iran and continued military pressure from multiple sides could still derail diplomatic efforts at any moment.