The United States has expressed its willingness to resolve its ongoing dispute with Iran through diplomatic means, despite recent hostilities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio made this statement following a call from Southeast Asian nations for both sides to pursue a peaceful resolution.
Rubio emphasized the US's commitment to negotiated settlements, saying, "We are open-minded and always willing to engage in negotiated settlements of differences."
This stance includes the dispute with Iran, where previous agreements had not been honored.
Rubio warned that when commitments are not kept, there will be consequences.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers had earlier urged the US and Iran to resolve the conflict through diplomacy.
They highlighted the risks to regional trade, energy security, and food supply.
Rubio also announced additional US investments in Southeast Asia, including $1.5 billion for aviation infrastructure, energy security, and supply chains.
Nearly $130 million was allocated for demining assistance.
