Rubio says US should hear Iran response today

Investing.com -- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday that the United States expects to receive a response from Iran regarding negotiations, stating "we should hear something today."

Speaking at a press briefing in Rome, Rubio addressed recent military incidents in the Strait of Hormuz, clarifying that Operation Epic Fury, which targeted Iranian missile launchers, naval vessels, air force capabilities and factories, has concluded. Thursday’s engagement occurred when US destroyers traveling through international waters came under fire from Iranian forces, prompting a defensive response.

"If you fire a drone or a missile at our destroyer, what are we supposed to do, let it hit it?" Rubio said. "We have to respond to it. We have to knock down the missile. We have to knock out whatever it is that launched that missile."

Rubio emphasized that any threats against Americans would result in military action. He also raised concerns about Iran’s attempts to control the Strait of Hormuz, an international waterway, warning that accepting such claims could set a precedent for other nations to make similar moves in international waters.

The secretary noted that humanitarian aid remains trapped in the Persian Gulf and cannot move due to the current situation. The US is working on a United Nations Security Council resolution addressing Iran’s actions in the strait.

On Ukraine, Rubio said US mediation efforts have stagnated but the country remains ready to facilitate peace talks if circumstances change. He described the conflict as a tragedy with heavy costs for both sides.

Regarding Taiwan, Rubio reaffirmed that US policy remains unchanged following Taiwan’s parliament approval of a defense spending bill. He said stability in the Taiwan Strait benefits China, the United States and the world.

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