Marco Rubio says war with Iran is over but peace with Iran still uncertain, urges China to act on Hormuz

06/05/2026

WASHINGTON, May 6: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a major US military operation against Iran has concluded, but warned that broader tensions remain unresolved and could still reignite if key conditions are not met.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Rubio said “Operation Epic Fury” — a joint US-Israeli strike launched on February 28 — had achieved all its objectives and was now complete. However, he stopped short of declaring an end to the wider conflict.

“We’re not cheering for an additional situation to occur,” Rubio said. “We would prefer the path of peace.”

He stressed that lasting stability would depend on Iran agreeing to US demands regarding its nuclear programme and ensuring the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route.

Rubio’s remarks came ahead of a planned visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to China, where he is expected to hold talks with senior officials. Rubio said he hopes Beijing will use its influence to press Tehran to ease tensions and stop disrupting maritime traffic.

“I hope the Chinese tell him what he needs to be told,” Rubio said, adding that Iran’s actions in the strait risk isolating it internationally.

He argued that China, as a major export-driven economy, has a strong interest in maintaining free navigation through Hormuz, noting that disruptions to shipping lanes could have significant economic consequences for Beijing.

“It is in China’s interest that Iran stop closing the strait,” Rubio said.

Despite the conclusion of the military operation, Rubio acknowledged that peace remains fragile, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to prevent further escalation and restore stability in the region.