The U.S. appears to be shifting its stance on Iran as tensions in the Gulf continue to rise, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging China to play a more active role in pressuring Tehran. Rubio said Beijing has a strong interest in restoring stability, warning that continued disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could hurt global trade and Chinese exports. His comments come as President Donald Trump says Washington does not need China’s help on Iran, even as backchannel diplomacy and nuclear talks remain sensitive. At the same time, Iran has reportedly set out five trust-building conditions before entering a second round of talks, signaling that any breakthrough may still be far off. With U.S.-Iran tensions deepening and regional security under strain, questions are growing over whether Washington can contain the crisis without broader international involvement. The stakes are high for energy markets, global shipping, and Middle East stability as the confrontation unfolds.