Rubio confirms rising energy flow through Strait of Hormuz amid US-Iran talks

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed on Thursday that energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz have seen a measurable increase, citing progress in indirect diplomatic contacts between the United States and Iran. Speaking to reporters before departing for a G7 foreign ministers meeting in France, Rubio acknowledged that intermediary countries are actively facilitating communication between the two sides, though he declined to elaborate on the specifics of the ongoing discussions.

Maritime security remains fragile

Rubio characterized the situation in the strategic waterway as improved but still below full potential. “There's a growing amount of energy that's been flowing through the straits, not as much as should be flowing, but some of it has picked up,” he said, adding that the exchange of messages has yielded some progress. The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption passes, has long been a flashpoint for tensions between Washington and Tehran, with previous incidents involving vessel seizures and military posturing.

Washington calls for international action

The top US diplomat issued a direct challenge to the international community regarding freedom of navigation in the Gulf. Rubio asserted that the strait “can be open tomorrow if Iran stops threatening global shipping,” urging nations that claim to uphold international law to take meaningful action. His remarks come as the US continues to balance diplomatic outreach with military deterrence in the region.

G7 talks to address regional crises

Rubio is scheduled to meet with G7 foreign ministers in France on Friday, where discussions are expected to cover Russia’s war in Ukraine and the broader Middle East situation. According to the State Department, the latter will focus on regional instability linked to ongoing tensions between the US-Israel alignment and Iran, underscoring the high stakes of any diplomatic breakthrough—or setback—in the Gulf’s critical maritime corridors.