Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, said in a television interview with Fox News on Monday night, referring to the economic situation of the Islamic Republic, that Iran’s economy has turned into an “all-out catastrophe,” and that instead of using the country’s revenues to improve people’s lives, the government uses its financial resources to build weapons, export the revolution, and support terrorist groups.

Mr. Rubio, speaking about the economic situation of the Islamic Republic, said: “They are moving at full speed toward an all-out catastrophe. They have never performed well economically.”

He praised the Iranian people and the country’s capacities, adding: “Actually, it’s heartbreaking, because Iran is a country with extraordinary potential. Its people are incredible, hardworking, smart, and driven, with a rich history behind them and many achievements.”

The U.S. foreign minister emphasized: “Iran was, at one time, one of the most prosperous countries in the Middle East before the hardline clerics took power. So, it’s a very heartbreaking situation. Their economy is now an all-out catastrophe.”