U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the conclusion of Operation ‘Epic Fury’ against Iran, stating that the United States has now transitioned to a new initiative called ‘Freedom.’
Rubio remarked, “The operation is complete. As the President informed Congress, we have achieved the objectives of this operation.” He emphasized that the U.S. is now focused on ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, in line with President Donald Trump’s directive.
“We are currently engaged in Project ‘Freedom,'” Rubio stated, adding that the implications of this initiative for the future remain to be seen.
On Monday, U.S. forces engaged several Iranian vessels, which Rubio characterized as a defensive action during a ceasefire period. He clarified, “This is not an offensive operation. It is a defensive operation, meaning we will only fire if we are fired upon. We cannot allow a fast-moving vessel to approach and attack our ships; we will respond to such threats, and we have done so successfully.”
Rubio described Project ‘Freedom’ as a “protective bubble” and a “first step” towards restoring full access to this critical waterway. He criticized Iran’s attempts to normalize its control over the Strait and condemned its blockade and efforts to impose transit fees on other nations.
“They are trying to make this a norm. Under no circumstances will we allow them to normalize the fact that they undermine commercial vessels and lay mines in the water. We prefer that these straits be open as they should be—just as they were before,” he asserted.
In conclusion, Rubio stated that discussions regarding Iran’s nuclear program, including issues related to enriched uranium, will need to be addressed through negotiations. He warned that if unresolved, Iran could hold the world hostage with its nuclear capabilities, indicating that action must be taken.
“Regarding negotiations, I believe the President has made it clear that the process must address not only enrichment but also what will happen to the material that is deeply buried… The President and the entire team recognize the significance of this issue, and it will have to be resolved in one way or another,” Rubio concluded.
Last week, the White House informed Congress that combat operations against Iran had been “suspended” following the expiration of a 60-day period requiring legislative approval.
However, President Trump has not ruled out resuming airstrikes should negotiations fail or if Iran violates the ceasefire.
It is important to note that despite the declared ceasefire, no agreement has been reached to formally end hostilities.
Iran recently submitted another proposal to the U.S., which included the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a cessation of hostilities, but postponed discussions on its nuclear program.
In response, Trump described Iran’s proposal as “unacceptable,” without specifying which aspects were problematic.
Simultaneously, reports surfaced suggesting Iran may be willing to discuss its nuclear issues in negotiations, though it remains unclear if this information has been communicated to Washington.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the end of Operation 'Epic Fury' against Iran and the initiation of Project 'Freedom,' aimed at securing maritime passage. While negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program continue, tensions remain as the U.S. has not ruled out future military action if talks falter.