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Published 11 days ago • loading... • Updated 10 days ago
Ten Civilian Sailors Have Died in Strait of Hormuz, Marco Rubio Says
Rubio said the U.S. will keep defending shipping lanes as hundreds of vessels wait to pass and talks continue over a ceasefire.
On Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that 10 civilian sailors have died due to the ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.
Before the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, about 20% of global oil supplies passed through the Strait daily, making it strategically vital.
Rubio insisted U.S. operations are defensive, telling reporters, "We are only responding if attacked first. This is a defensive operation." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed similar remarks.
The United Arab Emirates reported attacks from Iranian missiles and drones on Tuesday, even as Washington stated a shaky ceasefire remains intact despite the escalation.
Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are exploring a diplomatic solution that must address nuclear material Iran has buried "deep somewhere," Rubio said, describing talks as "highly complex.