Rubio: Iran Seeks to Use Strait of Hormuz as Leverage Against the World

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran aims to control the Strait of Hormuz and use it as a leverage against the international community. Rubio said that if attacks on commercial ships continue, they will proceed with military operations. Rubio, speaking before the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, responded to journalists' questions, arguing that the US military operations against Iran aim to target the military elements used in attacks on international commercial ships. Regarding Iran's goals for the Strait of Hormuz, Rubio emphasized that the responsibility for maintaining the security of global maritime trade lies not only with the US but with all countries, calling on the international community to contribute more to this effort. If Iran's attacks on international commercial ships continue, Rubio stated that they will continue to respond, while also noting that the Washington administration is continuing its pursuit of a diplomatic solution.