US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the Strait of Hormuz is a global passage that cannot be controlled by any single country, urging Iran to return to the negotiating table without delay.

Speaking at the White House, Rubio said the US-led “Project Freedom” was launched to protect human lives and secure international shipping routes, not to attack any country. He stressed that Washington would not allow Iran to establish control over one of the world’s most critical maritime trade corridors.

Rubio said recent military actions by US forces destroyed seven Iranian fast boats in the Strait of Hormuz. He added that tensions in the area have already claimed the lives of 10 civilian sailors, underlining growing concerns over regional security and the safety of commercial shipping.

According to Rubio, US forces will continue targeting drones and boats considered a threat to American personnel and maritime operations. He accused Iran of involvement in what he described as criminal activities in the waterway, while noting that the United States is increasing its regional deployment to protect commercial vessels.

He said Iran must accept the realities on the ground and choose diplomacy. Rubio added that Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are working on talks related to the wider Middle East situation.

He also claimed the US blockade is costing Iran nearly $500 million a day and said “Operation Epic Fury” has been completed with all objectives achieved. Rubio said President Donald Trump wants the Iranian people to have greater control over their future.