Rubio and Booker spar over whether Iran is in stronger position Senator Cory Booker criticized the White House for its handling of the conflict with Iran, stating that President Trump’s actions have strengthened Iran’s negotiating position. Secretary of State Marco Rubio countered that Iran’s economy is suffering significantly due to blockades and internal issues, suggesting that Iran’s leadership, not its people, is preventing a deal. Rubio believes the supreme leader and religious authorities are hindering the Iranian government from reaching an agreement with the U.S.

• Senator Cory Booker accused the White House of strengthening Iran’s geopolitical position.
• Booker pointed to Iran’s ability to shut down the Strait of Hormuz as evidence of its enhanced leverage.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio argued that Iran’s economy is severely damaged by the blockade and internal factors.
• Rubio stated that Iran is losing hundreds of millions of dollars daily due to the blockade.
• Rubio suggested that Iran’s supreme leader and religious authorities are preventing a deal with the U.S.