U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed hope that China will urge Iran to halt its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz during an upcoming visit by Iranian officials to Beijing. Rubio indicated that Washington expects Beijing to convey this message to Tehran both privately and publicly.
In a recent briefing at the White House, Rubio stated, “I hope the Chinese will tell them what they need to hear, namely: what you are doing in the strait is leading to your global isolation. You guys should not be undermining ships. You should not be laying mines. You should not be holding the global economy hostage.”
Rubio also commented on the broader situation in the Middle East, particularly the relationship between Israel and Lebanon. He emphasized that there are no territorial disputes between the two nations and that Israel does not claim Lebanese territory. He expressed confidence that a peace agreement between the countries is “inevitably achievable.”
Prior to these remarks, Rubio had stated that U.S. forces had concluded the active offensive phase of military operations against Iran and were transitioning to a new mission focused on ensuring the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Concurrently, President Donald Trump announced a temporary suspension of Operation “Project Freedom,” which was aimed at escorting commercial vessels through the strait at the request of Pakistan and other nations. However, the previously announced maritime blockade of Iranian ports remains in effect.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on China to communicate to Iran the need to cease its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. He also discussed the relationship between Israel and Lebanon, asserting that peace is achievable.