WASHINGTON, D.C. March 26, 2026 – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on Iran to immediately halt its threats to international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, declaring that the vital waterway could resume normal operations as soon as tomorrow if Tehran complies.
In a video statement posted by the U.S. Department of State on X (formerly Twitter), Rubio said: “The Strait of Hormuz could be open tomorrow if Iran stops threatening global shipping, which is an outrage and a violation of international law. For all these countries that care about international law, they should be doing something about it.”
The remarks were made as Rubio spoke to reporters on an airport tarmac, with the full 12-second clip showing him addressing media while standing near a government aircraft and security vehicles.
The statement comes amid the ongoing 2026 Iran conflict, which escalated after U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iranian targets began in late February. In response, Iran has restricted or blocked passage through the Strait of Hormuz for vessels linked to its adversaries, severely disrupting one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints. Roughly one-fifth of global seaborne petroleum passes through the narrow strait between Iran and Oman.
The disruptions have triggered sharp rises in global oil prices and energy market volatility, with ripple effects felt across Asia, Europe, and beyond. Shipping traffic in the strait has plummeted, forcing rerouting and higher costs for importers.
Rubio’s comments underscore the U.S. position that Iran’s actions breach freedom of navigation principles under international law. He urged the broader international community — particularly nations that routinely invoke international norms — to apply pressure and help restore safe passage.
The U.S. Department of State has not detailed specific next steps but has indicated ongoing diplomatic efforts with allies to address the crisis. Iran has so far shown no sign of easing its restrictions, maintaining that its measures are defensive responses to foreign aggression.
The full video and statement are available on the official @StateDept X account.
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