India-Iran Trade Deal? Rubio Dismisses Reports, Warns of US Sanctions

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports suggesting that India and Iran are moving towards a trade agreement following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Speaking to The Brian Kilmeade Show, Rubio said, “I don’t think there’s a trade deal between India and Iran.” He acknowledged that countries maintain their own foreign policies and continue diplomatic contacts with Tehran.

However, Rubio issued a warning to countries dealing with Iran, saying nations that help Tehran bypass US sanctions or create channels to generate revenue could themselves face American penalties.

The US Secretary of State reiterated President Donald Trump’s position that Iran must not be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon. He said Washington’s main pressure on Tehran would remain economic, while keeping the option of military action open.

Rubio also accused Iran of using financial resources to support armed groups and pursue its nuclear ambitions rather than improving the lives of its citizens.

His remarks come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, with the US warning of further economic pressure and sanctions on countries seen as helping Iran evade restrictions.