Washington, Aug. 2 (SANA)U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Sunday that Iran has become more willing to negotiate over its nuclear program and maritime security following sustained U.S. pressure.

In an interview with Fox News,Rubiosaid U.S. military strikes ordered by President Donald Trump had significantly weakened Iran’s air defense capabilities, leaving the country more vulnerable despite retaining missile and drone capabilities.

Rubio said increasing pressure on Tehran had altered its strategic calculations, arguing that Iran was now more receptive to negotiations over its nuclear program and the security of key maritime routes.

He also predicted that global energy trade would gradually become less dependent on the Strait of Hormuz, reducing the strategic importance of the waterway over time.

His remarks came a day after President Trump said he had canceled a planned military strike on Iran following requests from Tehran and several Middle Eastern countries, provided that a rapid agreement is reached to reopen theStrait of Hormuzand address concerns over Iran’s nuclear program.

Commenting on U.S.-China relations, Rubio said Washington would continue efforts to prevent China from achieving global dominance while maintaining key channels of communication to manage strategic competition.

On the war in Ukraine, Rubio saidPresident Trumpremained the only leader capable of bringing Russia and Ukraine to the negotiating table to seek an end to the conflict.