Marco Rubio says Iran deal ‘may take a few days’ after US 'self-defence' strikes

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday clarified doubts regarding an imminent deal between the US and Iran.

According to Rubio, the chances of negotiating a deal with Iran are still on table despite US fresh strikes on southern Iran.

Talking to reporters, Rubio said, “There were some talks going on in Qatar today, so we'll see if we can make progress. I think it's a lot of talking back and forth about a specific language in the initial document, so it'll take a few days,” quashing the hopes for imminent resolution of months-long conflict.

Talking about the strategically important Strait of Hormuz as 40 percent of global oil passes through the waterway, Rubio said, “The straits have to be open, they're going to be open one way or the other, so they need to be open.”

The announcement from the US Secretary of State comes as the US on Monday launched defensive strikes in southern Iran including on missile launch sites and boats placing mines.

U.S. Central Command said in a statement that the purpose of these strikes is to “protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.”

“Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines. U.S. Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire,” CENTCOM spokesman Timothy Hawkins said.

In a lengthy Truth Social post on Monday, President Donald Trump commented on the state of negotiations with Iran, describing the progress as going "nicely."

However, he also issued a stern warning, cautioning that any failure to reach an agreement would lead to renewed attacks. Emphasizing his "all-or-nothing" approach, the President declared, "It will only be a Great Deal for all, or no Deal at all."