Washington, D.C., United States — April 2, 2026
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that Iran has developed advanced missile systems capable of reaching deep into Europe, calling the development a “serious global security threat.”
In an interview with Fox News, Rubio defended ongoing U.S. military operations against Tehran, arguing that Iran’s expanding weapons capabilities and nuclear ambitions must be addressed simultaneously.
Missiles Capable of Reaching Europe
Rubio said recent Iranian missile tests have demonstrated capabilities that Tehran had previously downplayed or denied.
According to him, these missile systems now have the range to strike targets within Europe, signaling a significant escalation in Iran’s military reach.
He added that the development is part of a broader effort by Iran to expand its long-range strike capabilities—potentially extending to systems that could one day target the United States mainland.
Nuclear Program Raises Alarm
The U.S. Secretary of State directly linked Iran’s missile program to its nuclear ambitions, emphasizing that both issues must be tackled together.
Rubio stated that Iran has enriched uranium up to 60%, warning that it retains the technical capacity to quickly escalate enrichment to weapons-grade levels (around 90%).
“The only purpose of enriching uranium to 60% is to reach 90% and build a weapon,” Rubio said.
He further accused Iran of repeatedly rejecting opportunities to surrender or neutralize its uranium stockpiles.
US-Israel Military Campaign Objectives
Rubio outlined the strategic goals behind the ongoing joint military campaign by the United States and Israel.
According to him, the operation is designed to prevent Iran from concealing its nuclear program behind advanced weapons systems.
The campaign focuses on four key objectives:
- Destroying Iran’s air force and naval capabilities
- Neutralizing missile launch systems
- Eliminating drone and missile production facilities
- Disrupting broader military infrastructure
Rubio said U.S. forces are either on schedule or ahead of timeline in achieving these objectives and are “very close” to meeting their operational goals.
Growing Global Security Concerns
Rubio’s warning comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran drawing international attention.
Security analysts caution that Iran’s expanding missile range and nuclear capabilities could reshape regional and global security dynamics, particularly if escalation continues.
