Operation Epic Fury against Iran 'is over,' Rubio says

Key Points:

• The U.S. has ended its offensive campaign against Iran, Operation Epic Fury, and launched a new defensive mission, Operation Project Freedom, to secure and reopen the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing Iranian disruptions to commercial shipping.
• Despite a fragile ceasefire, Iran has continued attacks on U.S. forces and commercial vessels, with over 1,550 ships trapped in the Persian Gulf, causing significant disruptions to global trade and energy markets.
• U.S. officials emphasized that the new operation is defensive, aiming to ensure free passage through the strait without escalating to full-scale war, while President Trump warned Iran against further provocations.
• Iran condemned the U.S. operation as a violation of the ceasefire and accused Washington of imposing a blockade, with Iranian-backed attacks on the UAE’s oil facilities continuing amid rising regional tensions.
• Diplomatic efforts to address Iran’s nuclear program remain stalled, with U.S. officials expressing a preference for a negotiated deal, though Iran has yet to show willingness to pursue that path.