Rubio Draws the Line: U.S. Warns Iran It’s on the Brink of War

U.S. Secretary of State Rubio issued a stern warning to Iran today, stating that entering a war against the United States would be “their most serious mistake ever,” following recent U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The remarks came amid heightened tensions after “Operation Midnight Hammer,” where U.S. B-2 bombers inflicted significant damage on facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

In an NBC interview, Vice President JD Vance clarified U.S. intentions, saying, “We do not want regime change. We do not want to prolong this or drag it out further than it already has been. We want an end to their nuclear program, and then we want to talk to the Iranians about a long-term arrangement.” Rubio echoed this diplomatic outreach, affirming that the U.S. remains open to dialogue, with its offer still on the table.

However, IAEA Chairman Rafael Grossi cautioned on CNN that “it cannot be ruled out that there is significant damage at Fordow,” raising questions about the strike’s full impact. Rubio, in a Fox News interview, accused Iran of fueling regional instability through proxies like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iraqi militias, asserting, “Iran was on the verge of obtaining a nuclear weapon: we will not let them do it.”

He further warned that Iran possesses the materials to produce at least nine or ten nuclear bombs, based on its enriched uranium stockpile, and declared it “fair to say that Iran has everything it needs to produce a nuclear weapon.”

Amid ongoing conflict, air defense systems are active in Isfahan, signaling continued military engagement. Rubio also pledged a direct response to any proxy actions by Iran, stating, “We have made it clear that for every proxy action, we will respond directly against Iran.” The developments have left the region on edge, with the U.S. balancing military action and diplomatic efforts.