Marco Rubio Details the ‘Very Grave Threat’ That Iran is to the United States [WATCH]

Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran continues to pose what he described as a “very grave threat” to the United States, pointing to ongoing concerns about its nuclear ambitions, ballistic missile arsenal, and naval capabilities.

Speaking about U.S. policy toward Iran, Rubio said President Donald Trump has made clear that diplomacy remains the preferred path forward.

“The President was very clear last night that he always prefers diplomacy,” Rubio said.

“But I want you to understand, and everyone should know, that Iran poses a very grave threat to the United States and has for a very long time.”

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Rubio referenced Iran’s nuclear program, stating that despite previous actions to dismantle it, concerns remain about Tehran’s intentions.

“They are in possession. First and foremost, after their nuclear program was obliterated, they were told not to try to restart it, and here they are,” Rubio said.

“You can see them always trying to rebuild elements of it. They’re not enriching right now, but they’re trying to get to the point where they ultimately can.”

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Beyond the nuclear issue, Rubio highlighted Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities, particularly those that could threaten U.S. forces and allies in the Middle East.

“The other thing I would point you to, however, is that Iran possesses a very large number of ballistic missiles, particularly short range ballistic missiles, that threaten the United States and our bases in the region, and our partners in the region, and all of our bases in the UAE and Qatar and Bahrain,” Rubio said.

He also cited Iran’s naval assets as a risk to American interests.

“And they also possess naval assets that threaten shipping and try to threaten the US Navy,” Rubio said.

Rubio stressed that while nuclear negotiations may be the immediate focus of diplomatic talks, the broader military threat must not be overlooked.

“So I want to have better understand that,” he said.

“And beyond just the nuclear program, they possess these conventional weapons that are solely designed to attack America and attack Americans if they so choose to do.”

According to Rubio, upcoming negotiations are expected to center primarily on Iran’s nuclear activities.

“So these things have to be addressed the negotiations tomorrow, and the talks tomorrow will be largely focused on the nuclear program,” Rubio said.

“And we hope progress can be made, because that’s the President’s preference to make progress on the diplomatic front.”

However, Rubio said a significant obstacle remains Iran’s refusal to discuss its missile program.

“But it’s also important to remember that Iran refuses, refuses to talk about the ballistic missiles to us or to anyone, and that’s a big problem,” Rubio said.

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