🫣Rubio Hints At ‘Plan B’ In Iran Despite New Developments

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday that back-channel negotiations aimed at de-escalating tensions in the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict have made “a little bit of movement,” though he stressed that progress remains limited and uncertain.

Rubio adopted a cautious tone, saying the latest developments are somewhat encouraging but not enough to justify optimism. “I don’t want to exaggerate it, but there’s been a little bit of movement, and that’s good,” he said, adding that he is “not popping champagne yet.” He emphasized that Washington does not want to overstate the situation and warned that the opportunity for diplomacy may not remain open indefinitely.

Behind the scenes, Pakistan is again playing a mediating role. Security sources indicate that Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, is expected to travel to Tehran for discussions with Iranian officials, as Islamabad works to sustain communication between Washington and Tehran.

A major sticking point in the discussions is Iran’s reported proposal for a “tolling system” in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. Rubio rejected the idea outright, calling it unacceptable and warning it would undermine any diplomatic progress.

The Strait of Hormuz remains central to global energy security, handling roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments, making any disruption a serious international concern.