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 current phase as focused on protecting ships and keeping the vital waterway open.
Despite that framing, Rubio also pointed to ongoing interceptions and warned Iran it risks “generational destruction” to its economy if tensions escalate, urging its leadership to change course.
He added that Washington still prefers negotiations, but claimed Tehran has not chosen that path.
The shift in messaging from a completed operation to a “defensive” posture is drawing scrutiny, with critics questioning how ongoing military engagement and escalating warnings in a distant region align with claims that the US is no longer on the offensive.
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
