The secretary of state’s comments follow reports that Washington is considering targeting nuclear facilities and figures within the Islamic Republic
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated the United States could launch a “preemptively” strike against Iran, while also recognizing the challenges of any effort to change its government.
These remarks follow heightened threats from US President Donald Trump against Tehran, after weeks of deadly protests in Iran stemming from economic troubles and a plummeting national currency. While Iranian officials report a death toll exceeding 3,000, other estimates indicate it may be significantly greater. Tehran blames the US and Israel for instigating the unrest.
Trump has publicly voiced support for the protesters, stating “help is coming” and announcing a “big armada” is en route, as extra US military resources—such as an aircraft carrier strike group—are sent to the Middle East.
During a Wednesday Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, Rubio argued that keeping a US military presence in the area was “wise and prudent.” This presence “could respond and potentially… preemptively prevent the attack against thousands of American servicemen and other facilities in the region,” he stated, noting “I hope it doesn’t come to that.”
Rubio characterized Iran as “weaker than it has ever been,” but cautioned that it has amassed “thousands and thousands” of long-range ballistic missiles. He also conceded that any attempt at regime change there would be “more complex” than in Venezuela, where the US seized President Nicolas Maduro earlier this month.
According to a Thursday CNN report, Trump is considering a significant new military operation against Iran. Sources told the network that potential options involve strikes on Iranian officials believed responsible for protester deaths, alongside attacks on nuclear facilities and state institutions.
The report noted that Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile initiatives continue to be primary worries for Washington. CNN added that, although discussions were ongoing, US officials had set conditions for direct talks, demanding a permanent stop to uranium enrichment, limitations on the missile program, and an end to support for Iran’s regional allies.
Iran has cautioned that any American assault would be considered an “all-out war” and prompt a retaliatory response.