U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday that there has been limited progress in behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. While describing the developments as encouraging, Rubio cautioned against excessive optimism, saying only that there has been “a little bit of movement.”
According to reports, Pakistan is continuing to facilitate indirect discussions between Washington and Tehran. Security sources have identified Pakistan’s Army Chief, Syed Asim Munir, as an intermediary involved in the ongoing consultations, with a visit to Tehran reportedly planned.
Rubio emphasized that any Iranian proposal to require commercial vessels to pay fees or obtain authorization before transiting the Strait of Hormuz would be unacceptable. He argued that such a policy would violate international law, threaten global commerce, and significantly complicate diplomatic negotiations. Nearly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne oil exports pass through the strategic waterway, making any disruption a major concern for international markets.
Rubio also warned that if Iran continues pursuing restrictions on shipping through the strait, the United States and its allies may need to consider alternative responses beyond diplomacy.
Meanwhile, regional tensions remain elevated. Fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed organization Hezbollah has continued despite previous ceasefire efforts. At the same time, the European Union announced plans to expand sanctions targeting individuals involved in any blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Separately, Bret Baier said President Donald Trump expressed cautious optimism that negotiations with Iran could produce an agreement within the coming week, though no formal deal has been announced.
