US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Iran was risking “catastrophic” and “generational” economic damage through its actions, while stressing that the US’ ‘Peoject Freedom’ was aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and assisting vessels stranded in the Gulf.
Speaking to reporters, Rubio said the Strait of Hormuz “does not belong to Iran”, rejecting any claim that Tehran has authority to restrict or endanger passage. He described the targeting of shipping as illegitimate, stating Iran “doesn’t have a right to shut it down and blow up ships and lay mines”, adding that such actions “need to be addressed” and “cannot be normalised under any circumstances”.
Rubio warned against a scenario where vessels are forced to “coordinate with Iran” or “pay a toll” to transit the strait, calling it an unacceptable precedent that could extend to other global waterways.
He urged broad international response, saying “the whole world should join us in this condemnation” and support coordinated action, including efforts at the United Nations, where Washington plans to seek backing from other states.
Rubio added that the Operation Epic Fury has concluded, saying its objectives were achieved, while emphasising Washington’s preference for de-escalation, with President Donald Trump favouring a negotiated deal and a memorandum of understanding covering broader outstanding issues.
Recent developments show the US–Iran ceasefire under renewed strain amid continued military exchanges in the Gulf, reported attacks on regional states, and ongoing US interception of Iranian projectiles.
The situation remains volatile, with large-scale disruption to commercial shipping, leaving thousands of mariners effectively stranded in the Strait of Hormuz region.
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