- Rubio tells foreign ministers Washington is shifting focus from military action to sanctions
The United States is not currently expected to launch new strikes against Iran, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has told several foreign ministers, according to Axios, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Rubio indicated that Washington’s focus would shift away from new military action and toward other measures, including a sanctions initiative announced earlier this week, the report said.
The development comes amid continuing tensions following a period of direct US-Israeli military action against Iran and subsequent Iranian attacks on neighboring countries and vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
Sanctions replace immediate military focus
Washington on Monday announced an expansion of existing sanctions targeting countries and entities doing business with Iran, adding to economic pressure on Tehran. The US is also enforcing a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz affecting vessels traveling to and from Iran.
Rubio’s reported comments to foreign ministers indicate that, for now, Washington’s approach is centered on sanctions and other measures rather than preparing for another round of strikes against Iran.
