US Secretary of State Warns ASEAN on Iran’s Strait of Hormuz Control
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN leaders in Manila, Philippines, that Iran's potential control over the Strait of Hormuz and imposition of tolls would establish a dangerous global precedent, impacting freedom of navigation and the world economy. Rubio…
Houston, TX, July 22, 2026 —
MANILA, Philippines – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stark warning to leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) regarding the potential repercussions of Iran gaining control over the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking in Manila, Rubio emphasized that such a development, including the imposition of tolls, would set a perilous global precedent.
The Secretary of State highlighted the significant implications for both freedom of navigation and the stability of the world economy should Iran establish control over this critical waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for global oil supplies and international shipping.
In addition to addressing ASEAN leaders, Secretary Rubio engaged in separate discussions with partners from the Quad, an informal strategic security dialogue comprising Australia, India, Japan, and the United States. These meetings focused on enhancing maritime security and addressing China’s growing influence within the Indo-Pacific region.
The discussions underscored the U.S. commitment to maintaining open sea lanes and fostering security cooperation among allies and partners in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges. The specific outcomes or agreements stemming from the Quad meeting were not detailed.
Story summarized from the original created by Michelle L. Price And Jim Gomez, Associated Press on www.click2houston.com, see more information here.
