The United States (US) has announced the end of its offensive military operations against Iran, while warning that force remains an option if threats to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz continue.
Read More: US Naval Actions Against Iran Called Pirate-Like by Trump
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington had completed its offensive phase but remained prepared to respond decisively to any renewed attacks targeting commercial vessels in the strategic waterway.
Rubio’s statement came as US military officials stressed that American forces are still positioned to resume combat operations if ordered. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Dan Caine said US Central Command remains ready for “major combat operations” if necessary.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says “Operation Epic Fury” has concluded, claiming the US has achieved its objectives and is now operating in a purely “defensive” role near the Strait of Hormuz.
He stressed that US forces would only fire if attacked first, describing the… pic.twitter.com/1WCG0QDe0v
— Middle East Eye (@MiddleEastEye) May 6, 2026
The warning follows fresh tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran’s Revolutionary Guards navy reportedly warned ships to follow approved transit routes through the channel.
Iran and the United States exchanged accusations after Washington said it struck six Iranian boats it claimed were threatening shipping, while Tehran accused the US of killing civilians aboard vessels.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington is not seeking further conflict but warned any future attacks would face an “overwhelming and devastating” response.
President Donald Trump urged Iran to reach an agreement, saying he preferred diplomacy over prolonged military confrontation.
Rubio also accused Iran of disrupting the global economy through threats to maritime trade and alleged sea mine deployments in the Gulf. He said the US and Gulf allies had drafted a United Nations Security Council resolution demanding Tehran halt attacks on shipping, reveal mine locations, and end attempts to impose tolls in the strait.
Despite tensions, some limited commercial transit has resumed, with shipping company Maersk confirming one vessel passed through Hormuz under US escort.
Read More: Iran’s military warns US and Israel over possible retaliation
European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen, Friedrich Merz, and Emmanuel Macron, called for diplomacy, warning prolonged disruption in Gulf shipping could damage the global economy.