Rubio Says US Offensive Phase Of Iran Operation Has Concluded
Marco Rubio says US offensive operations against Iran have officially ended.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that American offensive operations against Iran have been completed, even as tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz following renewed maritime confrontations and warnings of further escalation. His remarks come amid ongoing instability in the Gulf region, where both sides have exchanged threats and limited strikes in recent days.
Rubio stated that while offensive actions have concluded, the United States remains fully prepared to respond with overwhelming force if any further attacks are carried out against commercial shipping in the strategic waterway. US military officials have separately confirmed that forces remain on standby and can resume combat operations if ordered, underscoring the fragile nature of the current ceasefire.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, has become a focal point of rising tensions. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards navy has warned of a “firm response” against vessels deviating from approved routes, while Tehran has insisted it has not yet escalated its actions further. Iranian officials have also denied claims of recent missile or drone operations, despite accusations from regional adversaries.
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According to reports, the United Arab Emirates has intercepted multiple missiles and drones over a two-day period, although Iran has categorically denied involvement. The conflicting claims have added to uncertainty in the region, as naval activity and military alerts continue to increase across Gulf waters.
US Central Command officials, including General Dan Caine, reiterated that American forces remain ready to resume major combat operations if directed. Defense leadership emphasized that restraint should not be interpreted as weakness, warning that any attack on shipping or allied forces would face a “devastating” response. Meanwhile, political leaders have continued to urge Iran toward diplomatic engagement.
US President Donald Trump called on Iran to “do the smart thing” and pursue a negotiated settlement, though he downplayed the severity of the conflict, referring to it as a “little skirmish.” At the same time, Pentagon officials stressed that the United States is not seeking further escalation but will act decisively if provoked.
The escalation has also drawn international concern, with Gulf states warning of economic and security risks tied to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. European leaders, including officials from the European Union, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, have urged a return to diplomatic talks, warning that prolonged instability could significantly impact global energy markets and economic growth.
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