Rubio: Iran not enriching uranium now, but trying to regain capability

Sen. Marco Rubio said Iran is not enriching uranium at present and that U.S. talks tomorrow will focus on the nuclear program; he also reported that Iran is pursuing longer-range missile capability.

Sen. Marco Rubio spoke about Iran ahead of scheduled talks, saying diplomacy is the administration's preference while also describing persistent security concerns. He said Iran is not enriching uranium right now but is attempting to rebuild elements of its nuclear program. Rubio noted Iran has a large number of ballistic missiles and is reported as pursuing longer-range missiles. He said the negotiations tomorrow will focus on the nuclear program. Key points: - Rubio stated that Iran is not currently enriching uranium but is trying to reach a point where it could resume enrichment. - He described Iran as possessing many short-range ballistic missiles and as pursuing longer-range missile capabilities that U.S. officials view as a potential threat to regional bases and interests. - The talks scheduled for tomorrow are reported to be focused on the nuclear program, and Rubio said Iran refuses to discuss its ballistic missile program. Summary: U.S. officials presented these developments as a mix of diplomatic engagement and ongoing security concerns, with the administration emphasizing a preference for negotiation over confrontation. The immediate next step is a set of talks reported for tomorrow that are to concentrate on the nuclear program; the outcome of those talks is undetermined at this time.