Marco Rubio Warns Iran Conflict Could Drag On for Additional Weeks
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a stark warning to NATO allies, indicating that the ongoing war in Iran may persist for another two to four weeks. This projection extends beyond the initial six-week timeline previously outlined by the White House at the conflict's outset.
G7 Summit Discussions on Middle East Crisis
During a G7 foreign ministers' meeting in France, where the Middle East crisis dominated proceedings, Rubio conveyed this assessment to counterparts including UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper. According to reports from Axios, Rubio stated that American military involvement is likely to continue into late spring, with operations potentially lasting up to four more weeks.
Rubio acknowledged that even after US military operations conclude, the turmoil in the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global oil shipping route—will present an immediate challenge. He expressed concerns that Iran might attempt to impose tolls on all vessels using the strait, a move he described as illegal, unacceptable, and dangerous to the world economy.
Trump's Delayed Strikes and Diplomatic Efforts
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has further postponed threatened strikes on key Iranian energy targets. Using his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that negotiations with Iran regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz were progressing very well.
Rubio informed G7 allies that two Iranian officials have shown willingness to engage with the United States. However, he noted ongoing confusion about political authority in Tehran following the death of Ayatollah Khamenei, complicating diplomatic efforts.
International Concerns and Russian Involvement
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized that Iran cannot hold the global economy hostage, particularly as forecasts indicate UK economic growth could be halved this year due to the disruption. She also voiced deep concern about Russia's cooperation with Iran, despite the ongoing crisis in the Gulf.
Cooper highlighted that Iranian-provided drones have been used in strikes against Ukraine and suggested evidence of Russian support to Iran in the Middle East conflict. However, Rubio denied reports that Russia has supplied Iran with intelligence to target American military personnel and bases in the region, asserting that nothing Russia is doing for Iran is impeding our operations.
Economic and Strategic Implications
The prolonged conflict and potential strait closures threaten severe economic repercussions worldwide. Rubio stated the US would seek international cooperation to maintain the Strait of Hormuz's openness post-conflict. The situation remains fluid, with military, diplomatic, and economic dimensions intertwining as the war enters its second month.
