- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has suggested a potential de-escalation of the Iran war, saying it would last "weeks, not months". He also noted Iran's willingness to discuss "certain things".
- However, Mr Rubio's comments contradict reports from the Wall Street Journal that Donald Trump is considering deploying an additional 10,000 troops to the Middle East.
- These forces could be positioned within striking distance of Kharg Island, a crucial oil export hub in the Persian Gulf.
- Despite this, Mr Rubio maintained his belief that the United States could achieve its objectives in Iran without ground troops.
- Separately, Mr Rubio also warned that it would be unacceptable if Iran were to implement a tolling system to control transit through the Strait of Hormuz.