US, Iran could finalize deal 'maybe today', says Rubio
What's the story
The United States and Iran are possibly on the verge of finalizing a deal to end the ongoing conflict in West Asia. On Monday, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio hinted at this possibility, telling members of the media it could be finalized "maybe today." "We thought we might have some news last night. Maybe today. I wouldn't read too much into it," said Rubio.
Negotiation details
Deal focuses on opening up the straits: Rubio
The deal is expected to address key issues such as the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. Rubio stressed that the deal would focus on "their ability to open up the straits" and "enter into a very real, significant, time-limited negotiation on the nuclear matter." This announcement comes amid President Donald Trump's mixed messages about the deal. While he said it had been "largely negotiated," he also advised officials "not to rush into a deal."
Twitter Post
Marco Rubio addresses reporters
#WATCH | Delhi: On Iran, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says, "Work still in progress. We thought we might have some news last night, maybe today. So we have what I think is a pretty solid thing on the table in terms of their ability to open up the Strait, get the Straits… pic.twitter.com/Ln3s3rJfTZ
— ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2026
Mixed reactions
Deal faces criticism from Iran hawks in US
The potential deal has faced criticism from Iran hawks in the United States who feel it might be too lenient on Iran. However, Rubio claimed that there is "a lot of support in the Gulf" and globally for this deal. The deal is said to include an "in principle" agreement by Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei to dispose of highly enriched uranium.
Sanctions condition
Sanctions relief for Iran contingent on resolving uranium issue
A senior US official revealed that sanctions relief for Iran is contingent on resolving the uranium issue. The official was quoted as saying by the New York Post: "If the Iranians make significant accommodations on the enrichment question, then we will make significant accommodations on sanctions relief." This condition is central to the ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.