WASHINGTON, Feb 26 (KUNA) -- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran is seeking to develop weapons capable of striking the United States mainland, stressing that diplomacy remains an option and described the upcoming talks as an opportunity for dialogue.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the 50th CARICOM Heads of Government meeting in Saint Kitts and Nevis, Rubio said Iran has long posed a "grave threat" to the United States.
He noted Iran is not currently enriching uranium but is attempting to reach that capability, adding that Thursday's talks will primarily focus on the nuclear program.
Rubio said Iran possesses conventional weapons designed to target America and is working to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles.
He added that Iran already has weapons capable of reaching large parts of Europe and warned that its refusal to discuss ballistic missiles remains a major concern.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran have escalated over Iran's nuclear and missile programs, amid renewed US warnings of possible military action unless a diplomatic agreement is reached. (end) asj.aai