WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Iran will not be allowed to take control of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz under any circumstances, amid rising tensions in the region.
Speaking during a media briefing, Rubio said Washington is still awaiting Iran’s response to recent proposals, but expects a reply to arrive within the day. He expressed hope that serious negotiations with Tehran could move forward.
Marco Rubio has said that no country in the world wants to see Iran acquire nuclear weapons, stressing that the United States will not allow Tehran to develop such capabilities under any circumstances.
Rubio said his meeting with Pope Leo was constructive and cordial, with detailed discussions on several global issues.
He added that while the United States remains ready to provide humanitarian assistance to regions such as southern Cuba, the current situation has limited effective cooperation.
On Iran, the US Secretary of State said Washington is still waiting for Tehran’s response regarding ongoing negotiations, which was expected earlier but has not yet been received. He expressed hope that Iran would respond seriously, opening the door to renewed diplomatic talks.
Rubio further reiterated that the United States would not allow Iran to control or interfere with maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that freedom of navigation must be protected.
Referring to recent military developments, he clarified that the latest operation has no connection with “Operation Epic Fury,” and warned that any attack on US forces would be met with a strong response.
He also claimed that Iran had previously opened fire in international waters, prompting a US response, and added that American forces are targeting fast-moving boats posing potential threats.
The statement comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, where the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
