Rubio says US has achieved objectives of Iran operation
Key Points:
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. has achieved its objectives in the military campaign against Iran, despite not yet securing Tehran's enriched uranium, and described the effort to ensure safe oil transit in the Strait of Hormuz as a separate, smaller defensive operation.
- Rubio emphasized that Operation Epic Fury has concluded and that the new operation, Project Freedom, aims to protect shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz without engaging militarily unless attacked.
- Rubio reported that 10 civilian sailors have died due to the ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz and highlighted the humanitarian impact on approximately 23,000 people aboard ships trapped in the Gulf.
- The U.S. continues diplomatic efforts to negotiate a nuclear deal with Iran, focusing on addressing Iran's remaining buried nuclear material and seeking clear concessions before advancing talks.
- The United Arab Emirates reported attacks from Iranian missiles and drones amid a fragile ceasefire, while hundreds of ships await passage through the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key route for about 20% of global oil supplies.