WASHINGTON D.C  (VINnews)-U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday praised the Iranian people while stressing that their leaders continue to pose challenges to global stability, even amid ongoing U.S. military operations against the regime.

“The people of Iran are incredible people. The people who lead them are the problem,” Rubio said. “If there are new people now in charge with a more reasonable vision of the future, it would be good news for the entire world. But we must be prepared if that isn’t the case.”

The remarks, posted by the State Department on X, come as the United States presses a military campaign aimed at destroying Iran’s navy, air force and missile and drone production capabilities. Rubio has said the objectives are on track to be met in “weeks, not months” without ground troops.

The comments reflect a longstanding U.S. distinction between the Iranian populace and the Islamic Republic’s leadership, which Washington accuses of pursuing nuclear weapons and regional aggression through proxy forces.

Rubio’s statement did not specify any particular change in Iran’s leadership or provide details on potential diplomatic openings. It underscores the Trump administration’s dual approach: applying maximum pressure through military action while leaving room for a shift if more moderate voices emerge in Tehran.

The U.S. launched pre-emptive strikes earlier this year following intelligence about imminent threats to American forces, according to administration officials. The operations target capabilities that could shield Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Rubio has said.