America ends military operation against Iran, Rubio’s statement – ​​efforts for peace continue, but tension persists in the Strait of Hormuz

Marco Rubio Statement: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that America’s major military operation against Iran is now over. However, he did not clarify whether this tension has ended completely or will not start again in the future.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Rubio said that ‘Operation Epic Fury’, which began with the attacks on Iran by the US and Israel on February 28, is now complete as all its objectives have been achieved.

He described the clashes that took place in recent days during efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as defensive actions. Rubio said that America does not desire any new conflict and wants to adopt the path of peace. He also said that for peace it is necessary that Iran accept the conditions related to President Donald Trump’s nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which is an important route for global oil and gas supplies.

Status of merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz

Despite America’s efforts, so far only two merchant ships have been able to pass through this route, while many other ships are stranded in the Persian Gulf. Ship owners are still concerned about safety.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States was making peaceful efforts to evacuate the ships, but was prepared to take action if necessary, adding that the ceasefire that began nearly a month ago had not ended yet.

Expecting pressure from China on Iran

Rubio expressed hope that Chinese President Xi Jinping and his government will put pressure on Iran so that it does not close this waterway, he said that China’s economy is highly dependent on oil and gas trade through this route, so it is in its interest that the route remains open.

He also said that about 23,000 civilian sailors are stranded in the Persian Gulf, who are in isolated and unsafe conditions. According to him, at least 10 sailors have died so far. These sailors belong to 87 countries.

Rubio’s statement on America’s action

Rubio made it clear that America’s action is not aggressive, he said that unless they are attacked, they do not fire and if American soldiers are in danger, they will respond, but their action is completely defensive.