Rubio Briefs Congress On Iran As President Trump Says Tehran ‘Desperately Wants A Deal’

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed top congressional leaders Tuesday on potential U.S. military options involving Iran, as President Trump said Tehran “desperately wants a deal” but refuses to clearly renounce nuclear weapons.

The classified briefing included House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and key intelligence committee leaders from both parties. The discussion focused on possible strike scenarios and the broader security picture as tensions escalate over Iran’s advancing nuclear program.

Speaking ahead of his State of the Union address, President Trump said negotiations are set to continue in Geneva but suggested Iran has not yet taken the critical step of pledging it will not build nuclear weapons. He has ordered two U.S. aircraft carrier groups into position while also dispatching special envoy Steve Witkoff to pursue talks.

Public opinion remains divided, with recent polling showing more Americans oppose military action than support it. Congress has not issued a new authorization for the use of force, meaning any sustained operation would likely trigger legal and political battles.

The administration is signaling that while diplomacy remains on the table, military options are ready if Iran refuses to change course.