Rubio defends Trump’s Iran war amid Democratic congressional win

Democrats gained control of Congress in Tuesday’s elections, a result analysts linked to public dissatisfaction with the war in Iran and its effect on gasoline prices and other economic factors.

Senator Marco Rubio, speaking in Florida before a Group of Seven foreign ministers meeting in Paris, said President Donald Trump initiated the war to address a "very real threat" from Iran’s nuclear program, adding that confronting such challenges may not be popular but is necessary for national security.

Rubio’s remarks contrasted with a recent social-media post by Vice President JD Vance, who attributed the Republican losses partly to the war. Both Rubio and Vance are mentioned as potential contenders for the 2028 presidential race.

President Trump, in a televised interview, praised the decision to go to war, stating it could prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and said he does not plan to expand the conflict. He also noted that Vice President Vance was correct about the war’s impact on the election.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that Iran possesses 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, a level below weapons-grade. Rubio said there is no imminent diplomatic breakthrough, but emphasized that the United States would defend its forces and shipping if threatened.

The administration continues limited strikes against Iranian targets and has intercepted a commercial vessel it said attempted to breach a naval blockade. Trump told CNN that further strikes would be unlikely if a strong agreement with Tehran is reached, though the U.S. has identified infrastructure targets for potential action.