WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stressed that the Strait of Hormuz “must remain open by any means possible” amid ongoing diplomatic efforts related to tensions with Iran.
According to international media reports, Rubio made the remarks while discussing the status of negotiations linked to a possible agreement with Iran. He said talks regarding the wording and language of the proposed agreement could continue for several more days.
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Rubio stated that discussions had taken place in Qatar and indicated that negotiators were currently focused on refining specific clauses and terminology in the preliminary draft of the agreement.
“I think there are many details related to specific language in the initial document that still need to be addressed,” he said while speaking to reporters.
Responding to a question about the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, Rubio emphasized that the waterway must remain operational regardless of the circumstances.
“The Strait of Hormuz has to stay open, however possible,” he said.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz has to be open, “one way or the other,” when referring to US strikes on Iran on Monday. pic.twitter.com/awY0g4hJGq
— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) May 26, 2026
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes, with a significant portion of global oil and gas shipments passing through the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to international markets. Any disruption in shipping through the strait could have major implications for global energy supplies and oil prices.
Rubio’s comments come at a time when diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran continues amid broader regional tensions and international efforts to maintain stability in the Middle East.
The US official also briefly addressed the situation in Ukraine, stating that there are currently no active or scheduled negotiations taking place regarding the conflict.
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Recent diplomatic activity involving Gulf states and regional mediators has raised cautious optimism about the possibility of reducing tensions in the region, though officials on multiple sides have indicated that negotiations remain complex and unresolved.
Analysts say the outcome of the talks could significantly impact regional security, energy markets and international trade routes in the coming weeks.