Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) said Tuesday that negotiations for a U.S.–Iran deal could be concluded within a few days [1].
The statement arrives as the U.S. military continues operations in the region, suggesting a strategy of simultaneous diplomatic pressure and military force to secure an agreement.
U.S. forces carried out strikes in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz on May 26, 2026 [1, 2]. A U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson said the strikes were carried out in self-defense to protect U.S. personnel [1].
Despite the escalation, Rubio said the diplomatic track remains active. "Negotiating a deal could take a few days," Rubio said [1]. He said to Deutsche Welle that the U.S. is still working on a possible agreement and it could be reached within days [2].
The U.S. government said that the military actions were intended to protect its personnel and create the necessary conditions for a diplomatic resolution [1, 2]. The strikes targeted areas in southern Iran, a region critical for global shipping and maritime security.
Rubio did not provide specific details on the terms of the potential agreement. However, the timeline suggests that both parties may be nearing a compromise on key security or nuclear issues, though the U.S. continues to maintain a military presence to ensure its interests are protected [1].
“"Negotiating a deal could take a few days."”
The juxtaposition of military strikes and optimistic diplomatic timelines suggests a 'coercive diplomacy' approach. By conducting strikes in the Strait of Hormuz while signaling a deal is imminent, the U.S. is attempting to leverage military superiority to force concessions from Iran. The success of this strategy depends on whether Iran views the strikes as a deterrent or as a provocation that undermines the trust necessary for a final agreement.
