The United States has announced the end of its military campaign against Iran, with officials confirming that the US Iran operation completed its primary objectives. Speaking on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the operation, known as Operation Epic Fury, has officially concluded despite unresolved issues surrounding Iran’s enriched uranium.
Rubio made the remarks during a rare appearance in the White House briefing room, stepping in for Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. His comments appeared aimed at addressing mounting criticism from Congress regarding the War Powers Resolution, which limits how long a president can authorise military action without approval. Although the deadline for the operation had passed, the administration declared the mission complete to bypass further legal scrutiny.
US Military Campaign Against Iran Ends
According to Rubio, the United States achieved its strategic goals under Operation Epic Fury. He emphasised that the administration now prefers a diplomatic resolution moving forward, signalling a shift away from direct military engagement. However, tensions remain high as key objectives, including securing Iran’s enriched uranium, have not yet been fully realised.
New Defensive Mission in Strait of Hormuz
A new initiative, Project Freedom, has been introduced as a separate and smaller operation focused on defence. Rubio explained that the mission is designed to ensure safe oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. He clarified that US forces will not engage unless provoked, reinforcing the defensive nature of the new strategy.
Global Oil Supply and Maritime Crisis
The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point due to its importance in global energy supply, handling nearly 20% of the world’s oil shipments. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed that hundreds of ships are currently waiting to pass through the waterway. Meanwhile, approximately 23,000 individuals from 87 countries remain stranded on vessels, highlighting the scale of the humanitarian and logistical challenge.
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Diplomatic Efforts and Nuclear Concerns
Despite the announcement that the US Iran operation completed, a major issue persists: Iran has not handed over more than 900 pounds of highly enriched uranium. Rubio stressed that any meaningful agreement must address the location and control of this material, which remains a significant security concern.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are actively exploring diplomatic solutions, though Rubio described the process as complex and technical. Progress will depend on clear commitments from Tehran.
Rising Tensions Despite Ceasefire Claims
Amid ongoing negotiations, the United Arab Emirates reported missile and drone attacks allegedly linked to Iran, raising concerns about the stability of the ceasefire. These developments suggest that while the military phase may have ended, regional tensions remain far from resolved.
As the situation evolves, the conclusion of the US Iran operation completed marks a turning point, but the path toward lasting peace will depend heavily on diplomacy and international cooperation.
