WASHINGTON D.C. – April 28, 2026 – Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the United States has no desire to harm Iranian civilians, describing them as victims of the Islamic Republic regime in a statement released by the Department of State.
In a clip from a Fox News interview, Rubio stated:
“Our desire is not to hurt the people of Iran. Frankly, we wish the voices of the people of Iran were heard as opposed to having 40,000 of them murdered in the streets, inside of hospitals, and executed on a routine basis. They are victims of that regime.”
The remarks come as the U.S. continues Operation Epic Fury, the military campaign launched on February 28, 2026, to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile program, navy, defense industrial base, and nuclear capabilities. The operation targets regime infrastructure while seeking to minimize civilian harm.
Rubio’s comments underscore the Trump administration’s position that the Iranian people are not the enemy — the regime is. The 40,000 death toll cited refers to victims of the regime’s brutal crackdowns on protests, including the January 8-9, 2026 massacre and ongoing executions.
The State Department’s X post sharing the video has drawn widespread support from the Iranian diaspora. Many users urged the U.S. to reject negotiations with the regime and instead back Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as a transitional leader for a free Iran.
Common sentiments in replies include:
- “Iranians aren’t asking for talks — they’re demanding the end of a regime with zero legitimacy. Back the people rallying behind Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi.”
- “DO NOT NEGOTIATE WITH MURDERER REGIME. MEET OUR TRANSITIONAL LEADER @PahlaviReza.”
- “Thank you, Secretary Rubio! The solution is clear: ending this terrorist regime is the only way to stop the carnage.”
The statement arrives as reports indicate a ceasefire is in effect in the Strait of Hormuz, with broader peace negotiations reportedly underway.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments in Operation Epic Fury and the situation inside Iran.
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