Marco Rubio: Opening Hormuz Strait is the first condition for deal with Iran

Speaking before the American Senate's Foreign Relations Commission, Rubio said Tehran is showing willingness to negotiate certain aspects of his nuclear programme, unlike a year ago when he refused any discussion.

There is the possibility that Iran has agreed to negotiate for some parts of its nuclear programme. A year ago, the Iranian regime was unwilling to do that”, he said.

According to Rubios, an agreement can be reached “sot, tomorrow or next week”, although he stressed that he cannot guarantee that the final outcome will be accepted by the American Senate or public opinion.

Hormuz, Washington's chief condition

The American diplomat underlined that the opening of the Hormuz Strait is the first and most important condition for the progress of negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

He explained that Iran must ensure that it will no longer attack ships crossing this strategic maritime route, not impose crossing fees, and help clear sea mines.

Rubio stressed that lifting sanctions will not come automatically due to the reopening of the Hormuz Strait.

“Iran won't benefit from the removal of sanctions just because it opens the Strait of Hormuz”, he said.

Conditions Even for Rich uranium

Rubio added that Tehran should be engaged in concrete negotiations, even for management and the fate of rich uranium reserves it currently owns.

He stressed that any easing of sanctions will depend on respect for the conditions and commitments made by the Iranian side.

At the same time, Rubio defended President Donald Trump's decision to crack down on Iran's military capacities, arguing that it is necessary to limit the country's ability to manufacture missiles and other conventional weapons.

According to him, Iran's conventional military capacities have been significantly damaged, though the country continues to possess a large number of fears, due to the low cost and ease of their production. / Periscope/