Trump and Rubio Insist Iran War Is Over, Even as Missiles Fly During Cease-Fire
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- President Trump initially stated that the cease-fire with Iran was only a pause, warning that fighting would resume if Iran did not end its nuclear program or reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio later announced that Operation Epic Fury had concluded, claiming the U.S. achieved its objectives and describing efforts to reopen the strait as defensive and humanitarian.
- Trump then paused the effort to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz after just one day, citing progress toward an agreement with Iran, but maintained the U.S. blockade to exert economic pressure.
- The administration's claim that the war is over contradicts ongoing missile exchanges and both sides' insistence on controlling the waterway, indicating unresolved conflict despite official statements.
- Despite extensive U.S. military operations targeting approximately 13,000 sites, key objectives outlined by Trump remain unfulfilled, underscoring the complexity and ongoing nature of the crisis.
