Washington (HRNW) – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced during a White House press briefing on May 5, 2026, that the offensive stage of the conflict with Iran, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” has concluded. Rubio asserted that the operation achieved its primary objectives and that the U.S. is now shifting its focus to a defensive posture under “Project Freedom” to protect commercial passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Rubio emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is a vital global waterway that no single nation can be allowed to control. He warned that the U.S. will continue to target any drones or high-speed boats—seven of which were recently destroyed—that pose a threat to freedom of navigation. Rubio also highlighted the human cost of the ongoing tensions, noting that 10 civilian sailors have lost their lives in the strait.
Addressing the economic impact, Rubio stated that the U.S. blockade is costing Iran approximately $500 million per day, leaving the regime “isolated and vulnerable.” He urged Tehran to accept the “reality on the ground” and enter immediate negotiations. Key points from his address include:
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Negotiation Path: Envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are actively working to explore a diplomatic solution.
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Project Freedom: A defensive initiative aimed at creating a “protective bubble” for commercial ships; Rubio clarified that U.S. forces will only fire if fired upon first.
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Nuclear Concerns: Any final agreement must address the status of nuclear materials Iran may have hidden underground.
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Regional Deployment: The U.S. is increasing its military presence to ensure that Iran cannot “normalize” the disruption of global energy markets.
Rubio concluded by reiterating that President Trump’s ultimate goal is to see the Iranian people empowered to determine their own future, free from a regime that engages in “economic arson.”
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