US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that countries helping Iran evade American sanctions could face penalties, while dismissing reports of an India-Iran trade deal. Rubio’s remarks came after PM Narendra Modi met Iranian officials, as Washington continues to pressure Tehran over its nuclear programme, revenue sources, armed groups and threats to global shipping.
Marco Rubio said countries have the right to pursue their own foreign policies and maintain contact with Tehran. However, he said Donald Trump had made Washington’s position clear on helping Iran generate revenue. “I think what ultimately happens though is — and the President’s been very clear — is no country should be helping Iran evade sanctions,” he said. Rubio said countries should not create mechanisms that allow Iran to earn money that Washington believes could support terrorism or its nuclear programme.
Rubio was asked about PM Narendra Modi’s meeting with the Iranian President and officials, along with reports that India and Iran were moving towards a trade agreement.
“Obviously, there are — countries all develop their own foreign policy, and many countries around the world talk to the Iranian regime,” he said. Rubio said preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains a central objective of the Trump administration. He said Washington would continue to use economic pressure while keeping military action as an option. “Iran will never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon, certainly not as long as President Trump is in office,” he said.
