US shifts Iran policy toward sanctions and maritime pressure

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has informed allies that Washington does not expect to conduct new military strikes against Iran at this time. According to reports, the Trump administration is shifting its strategic focus toward economic pressure, specifically through increased sanctions and a maritime blockade.

Rubio outlined a three-pillar policy: avoiding military conflict for the current phase, intensifying economic pressure via sanctions and naval blockades, and increasing oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. While the U.S. is not planning broad military operations, officials stated that the possibility of new strikes remains open if Iran initiates an attack against U.S. interests or forces.

U.S. officials claim that Iran has lost control over the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the U.S. Navy has regained control of the waterway by clearing mines and facilitating tanker movement. In response, Iranian officials have warned that Tehran will take new measures against U.S. interests if sanctions continue to escalate, demanding that the U.S. fulfill previous commitments to reopen the strait.