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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism on Tuesday, stating that Washington can see the "finish line" in its ongoing military conflict with Iran, now entering its fifth week. Speaking on Fox News Channel's "Hannity," Rubio acknowledged that a resolution is not imminent but signaled that an end to hostilities is within reach.
The conflict erupted on February 28 when the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran. Tehran responded swiftly with retaliatory attacks targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting American military installations. The escalating violence has resulted in thousands of casualties, the displacement of millions of civilians, surging global oil prices, and widespread instability across international financial markets.
Despite the ongoing military campaign, Rubio confirmed that diplomatic channels remain open. Messages are being exchanged between Washington and Tehran, and both sides are exploring the possibility of direct negotiations. President Donald Trump echoed a degree of optimism, suggesting U.S. military operations could wind down within two to three weeks, though his stated objectives have shifted throughout the conflict — ranging from regime change to degrading Iran's military capabilities and regional influence.
Beyond the Iran conflict itself, Rubio raised serious concerns about the future of U.S.-NATO relations. Several European allies refused to grant American forces basing rights or overflight permissions for operations against Iran, a stance Rubio described as a troubling indicator that the transatlantic alliance may have become a one-way relationship. He stated that the United States would need to reassess whether NATO continues to serve American strategic interests, though he emphasized that any final decision rests with President Trump.
The war has intensified global scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy, alliance commitments, and long-term strategy in the Middle East.
