Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to the press on Mar. 26 about upcoming discussions with the Group of Seven (G7) nations and ongoing diplomatic efforts concerning Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.
The remarks come at a time when global energy security is a concern, particularly due to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has been engaging with international partners to address these challenges.
Rubio said that assistance from G7 countries regarding the Strait of Hormuz is in their interest because they receive more fuel from that region than the United States does. "Well, it’s in their interest to help. I mean, the other countries get far more of their fuel from there than we do," Rubio said when asked if he would request support from G7 allies.
When pressed for specifics about what kind of help might be requested—such as minesweepers or naval support—Rubio responded: "Well, those specifics, I’ll leave it to the Department of War to say exactly what, but it’s in their interest. It’s in their national interest." He also addressed President Trump's recent comments about NATO and Ukraine: "I think he just made an observation...the United States is constantly being asked to help in a war...in Ukraine. But when the U.S. had a need, he didn’t get positive responses...Ukraine is not America’s war, and yet we’ve contributed more to that fight than any other country in the world."
Regarding Russia's role supporting Iran amid current tensions, Rubio said: "I think Russia’s primarily concentrating on the war they have going on right now. Beyond that, I don’t have anything to add right now." On negotiations with Iran over reopening shipping lanes without deploying U.S. troops on the ground, he stated: "That’s a tactical military question. I’m not going to speculate on what it will take." However, Rubio emphasized that progress has been made through intermediary countries passing messages between parties: "Some concrete progress has been made...there’s been some progress in regard to exchange of messages but that’s an ongoing and fluid process and not one we’re going to negotiate or talk about in media."
Rubio concluded by reaffirming his commitment: "I work for – I work for the people of the United States," adding optimism for meetings ahead while maintaining caution regarding outcomes.
