U.S. Says Offensive Operations Against Iran Complete, Warns of Response to New Attacks

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday the United States has completed its offensive operations against Iran, though Washington maintained it would respond with 'devastating' force to any new attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The statement came amid escalating tensions following exchanges of fire between U.S. and Iranian forces over the past 48 hours.
U.S. Central Command reported striking six Iranian boats it accused of threatening commercial vessels, while Iran claimed to have launched missiles and drones at U.S. forces. Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya command denied launching any missile or drone attacks, calling the U.S. allegations false. The United Arab Emirates said it intercepted multiple missiles and drones from Iran for a second consecutive day, a claim Tehran 'categorically' rejected.
Rubio accused Iran of threatening global commerce by laying sea mines and imposing tolls in the Strait, and announced the U.S. and Gulf allies had drafted a UN Security Council resolution demanding Iran cease attacks and disclose mine locations. The resolution also calls for ending toll collection and establishing a humanitarian corridor, with a vote expected in the coming days.
President Donald Trump urged Iran to 'do the smart thing' and reach a deal, while Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth emphasized the U.S. was 'not looking for a fight' but would respond with 'overwhelming' force if attacked. Israel's military leadership said it was ready to deploy fully if needed, as Iran's parliament speaker warned the U.S. 'malign presence will diminish.'
The U.S. and Iran remain on high alert, with only one round of direct talks held and negotiations otherwise deadlocked. The UN Security Council is expected to vote on the proposed resolution in the coming days, while commercial shipping continues under military escort through the Strait.