Rubio Says Iran ‘Clearly Not Serious’ About a Deal as U.S. Strikes Continue for 12th Night

Speaking on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Manila, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran is “clearly not serious about making a deal,” despite suggesting that Tehran wants negotiations.

Rubio stated that Iran is “begging for a deal” but warned that the country must change its behavior or face severe consequences. “They need to come to their senses,” Rubio said, adding that Iran would “pay a very heavy price” for its actions.

Meanwhile, the United States launched its 12th consecutive night of strikes against Iranian targets. Iranian media reported that a U.S. strike on the Shalamcheh border crossing with Iraq killed at least two people and injured 11 others.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also reported that a tanker caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz, while Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed missile and drone attacks on two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.

The escalating tensions follow President Donald Trump’s warning that the United States would strike Iranian bridges or power plants if Iranian forces attack ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Responding to Trump’s warning, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran’s military doctrine is “an eye for an eye,” signaling Tehran’s readiness to retaliate.

Separately, the United States and Saudi Arabia announced a landmark civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, potentially allowing Riyadh to develop uranium enrichment capabilities for peaceful purposes.

The latest military exchanges and diplomatic warnings have heightened fears of a broader regional conflict that could affect global energy markets and international shipping.