Rubio praises Trump's leadership after White House shooting, warns Iran on regional aims

From Washington, the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting was an unfortunate disruption, but President Trump's swift response, including releasing video and holding a press conference, demonstrated strong leadership and calmed the nation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted this decisive action, emphasizing the importance of pivoting back to the country's work. The incident underscores the volatile nature of the current global landscape, as Rubio noted.

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I think the President’s decision to return to the White House, release the video, and then address the American people in a press conference…really showed a lot of leadership by the President, and I think calmed the nation down, and I think has allowed us to pivot towards the investigation and move on with the work of the country.

Rubio also addressed the complex relationship with Iran, pointing to the radical Shia clerics as a primary impediment to any agreement. He detailed the internal divisions within Iran's leadership, explaining that U.S. negotiators face the challenge of dealing not only with Iranian officials but also with competing hardline factions within the country. This internal fracturing complicates diplomatic efforts significantly.

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Well, other than the fact that the country’s run by radical Shia clerics – that’s a pretty big impediment.

Furthermore, Rubio issued a stern warning regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions and its regional expansionist agenda, particularly through proxies like Hezbollah. He stressed that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway, and any Iranian attempt to control passage or impose fees would be unacceptable and set a dangerous global precedent. The U.S. remains vigilant against Iran's efforts to dominate the region and increase threats, especially if Tehran were to acquire nuclear weapons.

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They’re deeply fractured internally.