WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced that Washington’s military campaign against Iran, known as “Operation Epic Fury,” has ended, even as renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to strain a fragile ceasefire.
According to Beyond Time News, the statement comes amid ongoing uncertainty over maritime security and diplomatic efforts to stabilise the region.
US Declares End of Major Military Phase
Marco Rubio said the US-led operation had achieved its objectives and moved into a defensive phase focused on protecting commercial shipping routes.
He stated that “Operation Epic Fury is concluded,” adding that the US is no longer conducting offensive strikes unless attacked first.
The campaign, launched alongside Israel, reportedly lasted more than two months and involved extensive military action in the region.
Shift Toward Defensive Posture
US officials said the focus has now shifted to reopening safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy trade.
Rubio emphasised that the US is prioritising protection of shipping lanes rather than escalation, while warning that any attack would be met with force.
Trump Announces Temporary Pause in Naval Operation
US President Donald Trump announced a temporary pause in a naval initiative aimed at escorting stranded vessels through the Strait.
He said the decision followed diplomatic progress and requests from Pakistan and other countries involved in mediation efforts.
However, he also confirmed that restrictions on Iranian ports remain in place.
Ceasefire Remains Under Pressure
Despite the declared end of active operations, officials acknowledged that the ceasefire remains fragile.
Reports of sporadic attacks and maritime incidents have continued to raise concerns about renewed escalation.
The US military said it has responded to threats in the region, including intercepting projectiles and targeting small hostile boats.
Read more:US Forces Signal Readiness to Resume Combat Against Iran as Tensions Escalate in the Gulf
Iran Denies Recent Attacks
Iran’s military leadership rejected accusations of recent strikes in the Gulf region.
Officials from Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said no missile or drone operations were carried out against the United Arab Emirates or commercial vessels.
They called the allegations “categorically false.”
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
US officials said diplomatic channels remain open, with discussions ongoing to explore possible agreements with Iran.
However, they acknowledged that negotiations are still at an early and uncertain stage.
Trump also declined to specify what actions would be considered violations of the ceasefire, saying only, “You’ll find out.”
Conclusion
While the US has officially declared the end of its major military operation, tensions in the Gulf remain unresolved. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to be a key pressure point, with global energy security and regional diplomacy hanging in the balance.
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