Rubio says Iran faces economic strain and military damage
The US secretary of state told an ASEAN summit in Manila that Iran is dealing with hyperinflation, higher food costs and damaged military infrastructure.
By James Whitfield · Staff Writer
1 min read
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran is in “a lot of trouble,” pointing to severe economic pressure and damage to its military infrastructure, Al Jazeera reported. Rubio made the comments while speaking at a summit of ASEAN nations in Manila.
According to Al Jazeera, Rubio said Iran is facing hyperinflation and rising food costs. He also said the country has sustained severe damage to its military infrastructure.
The remarks came during Rubio’s appearance at the regional summit in the Philippine capital. Al Jazeera did not report further details of Rubio’s comments or any response from Iranian officials.
Rubio’s comments framed Iran’s current position as strained on both economic and military fronts. His assessment, as reported by Al Jazeera, cited domestic price pressures and damage to defense-related infrastructure as the main factors behind that view.
The report was published July 22, 2026.
This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.