Rubio Mocks Crippled Iran: ‘Other Than That, They’re Fine’

Secretary Of State Ridicules Claims Tehran Emerged Stronger

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed claims that Iran has emerged stronger from its confrontation with the United States, arguing the regime has been left militarily weakened, economically battered and politically divided.

Appearing before the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rubio delivered a scathing assessment of Tehran's condition, mocking suggestions that the Islamic Republic had weathered the conflict successfully.

"They have no navy, they have no air force, they have no air defenses," Rubio told lawmakers.

‘Massive Destruction’ To Iran’s Military

Rubio said Iran's military capabilities had suffered severe damage during the conflict.

According to the secretary of state, large sections of the country's defence industry have been destroyed, while significant numbers of missile launchers and drone systems have been wiped out.

The comments were aimed directly at critics who have argued that Iran has managed to withstand months of military and economic pressure.

Instead, Rubio painted a picture of a regime struggling to recover from extensive battlefield losses.

Economy Under Severe Pressure

The secretary also highlighted what he described as a deepening economic crisis inside Iran.

He claimed the country is losing hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue while battling soaring inflation and a rapidly collapsing currency.

Rubio told lawmakers that the government is increasingly struggling to meet basic financial obligations.

"Their leadership is fractured. They have hyperinflation, their currency is worthless, and they're having trouble making payroll," he said.

Rubio Delivers Sharp One-Liner

After listing Iran's military and economic problems, Rubio capped his remarks with a sarcastic swipe that quickly drew attention.

"I guess other than that, they're doing well," he joked.

The remark underscored the administration's argument that pressure on Tehran is working and that Iran remains in a far weaker position than its leaders publicly admit.

Warning Over Congressional Pushback

Rubio also used the hearing to criticise efforts in Congress to limit President Trump's military options through war powers legislation.

He argued that public debate over restricting presidential authority risks sending the wrong message to Tehran.

According to Rubio, Iranian leaders may interpret congressional opposition as evidence that Washington's resolve is weakening.

If Iran believes American military action is off the table, he warned, the regime may see less incentive to negotiate a settlement.

Nuclear Deal Would Go To Congress

Despite defending the administration's approach, Rubio pledged that any future nuclear agreement with Iran would be submitted to Congress for review.

He confirmed the White House would comply with the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act, which requires lawmakers to examine and vote on any major nuclear accord with Tehran.

That assurance comes as negotiations continue amid ongoing tensions across the Middle East.

Hope For Progress In Lebanon

Rubio also pointed to signs of diplomatic progress between Israel and Lebanon following two days of talks in Washington.

He revealed that representatives from both governments were meeting at the State Department and expressed hope that discussions could soon produce a joint security framework.

The aim, he said, is to strengthen Lebanon's legitimate government while reducing the influence of Hezbollah and other Iranian-backed groups.

Whether those talks can help calm wider regional tensions remains to be seen, but Rubio made clear that the administration views them as a key part of any broader peace effort.

SOURCE