US Declares End of Offensive Operations Against Iran

The United States has officially completed its offensive operations against Iran, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, though Washington has warned that force remains an option if new attacks occur in the Strait of Hormuz.

Rubio stated that the US is prepared to deliver a “devastating” response if shipping routes in the strategic waterway are targeted again. His remarks follow statements from senior US military officials confirming that American forces are ready to resume combat operations if ordered, amid ongoing instability in the region.

Tensions escalated after Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned of a “firm response” to any ships deviating from approved maritime routes. Iranian officials also claimed that Tehran “had not even started yet” in response to recent developments in the Gulf.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting missiles and drones, although Iran “categorically” denied launching any such attacks, stating through its military command that “the armed forces…did not launch any missile or drone operation.”

The United States previously conducted strikes on Iranian boats it accused of threatening commercial shipping, while Iran fired missiles and drones at US forces, marking the most serious escalation since a fragile ceasefire began.

US Central Command confirmed it remains “ready to resume major combat operations…if ordered,” while stressing that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.

Pentagon officials warned that any further aggression would face “overwhelming and devastating” retaliation. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump urged Iran to pursue diplomacy, saying he did not want further casualties and encouraging Tehran to “do the smart thing” and reach a deal.

Iranian leadership, however, criticized US policy, with officials calling the situation “intolerable” and warning of reduced American influence in the region.

The escalation has disrupted global shipping, prompting reactions from Gulf states and European leaders. The UAE called the situation a “dangerous escalation,” while Saudi Arabia urged diplomatic solutions.

European leaders warned that continued instability in the Gulf would directly impact global economies. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the attacks as “unacceptable”, stressing their global consequences.

Despite tensions, diplomatic channels remain open, though negotiations between Iran and the United States remain deadlocked after limited talks.