Marco Rubio warns that Iran’s demand to control the Strait of Hormuz threatens global trade and freedom of navigation.

Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, warned Asian leaders that Iran’s attempt to control and collect tolls in the Strait of Hormuz could threaten the global economy. Speaking at an ASEAN summit in the Philippines, Marco Rubio stated that allowing a single nation to dictate terms for an international waterway sets a dangerous precedent that could repeat worldwide. The administration announced that while the U.S. remains committed to diplomacy, Tehran has not shown sufficient seriousness in negotiations. Marco Rubio noted that if Iran continues to violate its commitments, the U.S. will take necessary actions to protect its interests and those of its allies. This comes as the U.S. completed an 11th consecutive night of strikes against Iranian military targets to degrade its ability to threaten commercial shipping. The administration also highlighted Iran's internal struggles, noting the country faces hyperinflation and severe damage to its military infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Quad partnership reaffirmed its commitment to maritime security to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

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