US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed that Washington remains open to diplomatic engagement with Tehran, provided discussions are genuine and commitments are honored. Speaking at the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference in Manila, Rubio stated that while direct and indirect communications have occurred, Iran has failed to show serious intent to reach a negotiated settlement. He emphasized that the US will act to protect its national security interests and those of its international allies if diplomatic efforts prove ineffective.
Rubio strongly condemned Iran's attempts to control maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that allowing a state actor to dictate transit terms, levy tolls, or attack commercial shipping would establish a dangerous precedent for global trade and freedom of navigation. He noted that such actions threaten international law and could undermine maritime security in other regions, including Southeast Asia.
The statements follow renewed military engagements, with US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirming its 11th consecutive night of airstrikes against Iranian military installations, logistics centers, and drone infrastructure aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping lanes. Tensions have spiked again despite a Pakistani-mediated memorandum of understanding signed last month, as recent exchanges near the Strait of Hormuz broke the fragile ceasefire and halted broader peace talks.
