The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that important progress is being made in the ongoing negotiations with Iran and a possible agreement could be reached within a few days. He also said that the United States will ensure that the Strait of Hormuz remains open at all costs because it is a very important route for global trade and energy supply.

While speaking to journalists in the Indian city of Jaipur, Marco Rubio said that the US is continuing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the region, but at the same time necessary steps are being taken to protect American interests and allies. He confirmed that recent US operations in southern Iran targeted boats used for laying naval mines and missile launching sites.

According to the US Secretary of State, despite the ceasefire there are still possible threats from Iran, therefore defensive actions are being carried out to protect American forces. Marco Rubio said that Washington wants to give diplomacy every possible chance, however if negotiations fail the US may consider other options. He added that stability in the region is important for both the United States and the global economy.

US President Donald Trump also expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing talks with Iran and said that discussions are moving in a positive direction, but if no agreement is reached the US will not avoid taking tougher measures.

On the other hand, Iranian media claimed that Iran shot down an enemy stealth drone using an advanced air defense system. Iranian officials said that the country’s defense system is fully active and any aggression will receive a strong response.

Meanwhile in Doha, the capital of Qatar, Iran’s top negotiator and foreign minister held an important meeting with the Qatari Prime Minister. During the meeting they discussed the possible agreement with the US, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles in detail.

According to diplomatic sources, Qatar and other Gulf countries are engaged in behind the scenes diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the region and prevent any major conflict between Iran and the United States.

It should be noted that after February 28, due to operations by the US and Israel, the number of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased. Experts say this situation has caused increases in global prices of oil, gas, fertilizer and food, while uncertainty in international markets continues.

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is extremely important not only for the Middle East but also for the global economy because a large portion of the world’s oil supply passes through this route.