US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has underscored Washington's commitment to exploring peaceful channels in the West Asian crisis, while maintaining a firm line on alternative measures.
Rubio highlighted that diplomacy is the first option, but warned that there are other options if a deal with Iran cannot be reached.
The remarks come at a critical juncture for regional stability, following intense diplomatic manoeuvres behind closed doors.
Rubio indicated that American negotiators remain receptive to a diplomatic resolution if Tehran acts in good faith, and expressed hope for a peaceful settlement through dialogue rather than escalation.
The White House has denied a broadcast by Iranian state television asserting that Tehran and Washington had negotiated a preliminary blueprint to halt hostilities in West Asia.
American officials issued a public alert against the state-sponsored broadcast to prevent misinformation from derailing actual diplomatic channels.
The contested Strait of Hormuz remains a critical maritime choke point, with any military friction or diplomatic alignment exerting a high-stakes influence over international fuel indices and geopolitical equilibrium.
