Rubio Says Rifts Exist in Iranian Leadership, Some Iranians Privately in Contact with US

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking on ABC, responded to Trump's remarks about talking with 'a new, more rational regime' in Iran, and disclosed divisions within the Islamic Republic's leadership. Rubio declined to name those in contact with the US, saying: 'I won't name them because it might cause problems for them inside Iran.' He added that some people in Iran 'are saying the right things privately' and that communications have been established that were unprecedented before. Rubio cautioned that it remains unclear whether these individuals will come to power or have the ability to fulfill commitments, saying: 'We will test this and hope so.' He also noted that Trump's statements show he still 'prefers diplomacy' despite threats. On the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio said the Islamic Republic is attempting to create a system to determine which ships may pass through international waters. He added that such an action would harm other countries more than the United States. Rubio said the international community should pay attention to this issue. He noted that while US energy dependence on this route is limited, much of the world depends on the Strait of Hormuz and those countries would suffer the most if disruptions occur.