Rubio Struggles to Win G7 Support Amid Iran War Skepticism
Rubio meets G7 allies to gain support for Iran conflict.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in France on Friday to meet his Group of Seven (G7) counterparts, facing a challenging task of convincing skeptical allies about the United States’ strategy in the ongoing Iran conflict. The visit comes just hours after former President Donald Trump sharply criticized NATO countries for their perceived reluctance to support the US and Israel in the war.
Rubio’s arrival at the historic 12th-century abbey in Vaux-de-Cernay was marked by a group photo with fellow foreign ministers, though no officials engaged publicly. With almost all G7 nations raising objections to Washington’s approach, Rubio’s mission is complicated by existing tensions between the US and its European partners over multiple global issues, including support for Ukraine and prior territorial disputes, such as Trump’s Greenland comments.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Rubio emphasized that his priority is representing the interests of the American people rather than placating allies. “I get along with all of them on a personal level, and we work with those governments very carefully, but the people I’m interested in making happy are the people of the United States,” he said. He urged partners to cooperate on the Middle East, warning that Iran’s actions could disrupt global commerce.
European leaders have expressed concern over the US-led campaign. France, hosting the G7 summit near Versailles, has voiced skepticism, with Gen. Fabien Mandon, chief of the French defense staff, noting that allies were not informed prior to the start of hostilities. Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized the importance of avoiding further destabilization, maintaining economic freedom, and ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump’s criticism of NATO, voiced on Thursday, underlined the strain. “We are very disappointed with NATO because NATO has done absolutely nothing,” he said, later calling his engagement a “test” of allied support. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte highlighted Europe and Canada’s increased defense spending while affirming ongoing monitoring of Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
Rubio’s discussions are expected to focus on securing a joint approach to mitigate risks in the Middle East, safeguard international shipping routes, and reassure allies of US commitment. The outcome could shape the US-European stance on the Iran war while testing the resilience of long-standing transatlantic partnerships.
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