Trump and Rubio Frame Iran War as Last Chance to Prevent Nuclear Iran

Mar 31, 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has characterized the ongoing military campaign against Iran as the 'last best chance' to prevent a nuclear Islamic regime, while President Trump threatens to obliterate Iran's energy infrastructure without a ceasefire. The US has already destroyed Iran's air force and largely eliminated its navy, with plans to target missile and drone factories, demanding Iran abandon all nuclear and weapon programs. Rubio stated military objectives could be achieved within weeks and warned the Strait of Hormuz will be kept open by force if necessary. The conflict has exposed NATO divisions, with Spain denying US use of its airspace and bases, prompting Rubio to suggest NATO will need re-examination after the war.

US Military Campaign Timeline and Objectives in Iran

▪The United States plans to destroy factories that make Iranian missiles and drones as part of its military campaign.
▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US war objectives in Iran could be achieved in weeks, not months.

Demands for Iran to Abandon Nuclear and Missile Programs

▪Iran could pursue civilian nuclear energy but not in a way that would allow it to quickly develop a nuclear weapon, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington will continue its military campaign until Tehran abandons its nuclear and missile programmes.
▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Iranian regime can never have nuclear weapons.
▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed that Iranian short-range missiles only have one purpose, which is to attack Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.

Control and Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz

▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz will be kept open one way or another.
▪The United States will not accept Iran claiming sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

US Position on Iranian Regime Change and NATO Relations

▪Talks between Iran and the United States are under way through intermediaries according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
▪Iranian leadership change is not an objective of the US military operation according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that no one has seen or heard from Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
▪US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States would welcome political change in Iran if the opportunity arose, but it is not an official objective.