U.S. Central Command has conducted strikes against Iranian targets for the 11th consecutive night, aiming to diminish Iran's capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio's remarks at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting underscore the U.S. stance that Iran is not adhering to a recent agreement regarding the management of the strait.
He pointed out that Iran's claim to control traffic in the Strait of Hormuz contradicts international law and poses a dangerous precedent for global maritime navigation. The U.S. and Iran had previously signed a memorandum on June 17, which aimed to halt military operations and negotiate a permanent agreement, but left the management of the strait unresolved.
Iran's interpretation of the agreement suggests it could charge for maritime services, which the U.S. rejects. Rubio's comments also hint at broader geopolitical implications, referencing the importance of freedom of navigation in relation to China's claims in the South China Sea.
The ongoing military actions against Iran are framed as necessary responses to Tehran's failure to uphold its commitments, with significant implications for global energy security, as the Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for a substantial portion of the world's energy supply