Rubio directs US envoys to press for swift action against Iran

2026-03-17 - 06:42

Washington has launched a new diplomatic offensive to isolate Iran and its allied groups, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio instructing US embassies to press foreign governments for urgent action. According to a diplomatic cable obtained by local media, the directive warns of an "elevated risk of attack" from Iran and its proxies, urging nations to swiftly curtail their capabilities. The message, dispatched to all diplomatic and consular posts, is part of a broader strategy to counter Tehran's influence in the Middle East and beyond. Global Diplomatic Push The cable, labeled "Elevated Concern of IRGC Activity," sets a March 20 deadline for US officials to deliver the demand at the "highest appropriate level." It emphasizes the need for immediate cooperation, stating, "All governments must move expeditiously to diminish the capabilities of Iran and Iran-aligned terrorist groups from attacking our respective nations and citizens." The document also urges countries that have not yet designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Hezbollah as terrorist entities to do so without delay. Such designations, it argues, would "intensify the pressure on the Iranian regime" and curb its ability to sponsor global terror activities. Escalating Regional Tensions The directive follows a significant escalation in the Middle East, triggered by a large-scale US-Israeli attack on Iran on February 28, which reportedly killed over 1,300 people, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In response, Iran launched drone and missile strikes against Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf nations hosting US military assets. The ongoing conflict has already cost the lives of 13 US service members, with approximately 200 others wounded since operations began. The new diplomatic push aims to capitalize on international focus to end what the US describes as "the Iranian campaign of terror." Regional Implications The US move is likely to intensify pressure on regional and global powers to adopt a firmer stance against Tehran. Analysts suggest that the push to designate the IRGC and Hezbollah could reshape alliances in the Middle East, particularly affecting nations with previously ambiguous policies. Regional actors, including Türkiye, are expected to monitor the situation closely as they balance their own security interests with diplomatic ties. As the March 20 deadline nears, Washington anticipates its partners will align with the new strategy, potentially leading to further sanctions or measures against Iran and its proxies.