U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran controlling the Strait of Hormuz sets a dangerous precedent, as U.S. forces conduct daily airstrikes. Despite U.S. openness to diplomacy, Rubio stated Iran has not honored commitments and is illegally demanding control of the vital waterway.
Escalating Tensions and U.S. Actions
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned on July 22 that allowing Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent, as U.S. forces conducted airstrikes on Iranian targets for the 11th consecutive night. Speaking at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Manila, Rubio reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to diplomacy but emphasized that Iran has not honored its commitments under a recent deal to reopen the Strait. He accused Tehran of demanding the right to control traffic through the waterway, a claim he said has no basis under international law. The U.S. Central Command confirmed strikes on Iranian military operations centers, drone storage facilities, and logistics infrastructure, aiming to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping.
Economic Impact and Regional Parallels
Rubio's remarks came amid rising oil prices, with Brent crude surging nearly 4% to $95 per barrel as traders braced for prolonged conflict. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil flows, has seen heightened tensions alongside disruptions in the Red Sea and Black Sea due to Houthi rebel threats and Ukrainian attacks on Russian shipping. Rubio also drew parallels to China's claims in the South China Sea, warning that allowing one nation to control international waterways would create a precedent with global repercussions. He called on other countries to join U.S. efforts to protect shipping lanes.
Diplomatic Overtures and U.S. Stance
Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly made both direct and indirect approaches to the U.S. for a settlement, but Rubio stated that Tehran has not demonstrated seriousness in negotiations. The U.S. has condemned recent clashes in the South China Sea between Chinese and Philippine forces, further highlighting regional tensions over maritime sovereignty.