Manila: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning to Tehran following recent escalations in the Middle East, where Iranian forces have targeted US bases in Kuwait, and Houthi rebels have attacked Saudi tankers. Rubio's remarks came in response to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi's vow of retaliation against US threats to bomb Iranian infrastructure.
According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, Rubio emphasized a firm US stance, stating, "The presidents policy is a head for an eye," and warning that Iran will face significant consequences for its actions. His comments were made during the Association of South Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings in Manila, as the conflict in the region continues to broaden.
Iran's military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) have claimed responsibility for striking multiple US bases in Kuwait, including Ali Al Salem air base, Camp Udairi, and Camp Arifjan. The attacks were reportedly in retaliation for American strikes on Iranian targets, marking the 12th consecutive night of US bombing. Kuwait's military has reported intercepting drone threats, and Jordan's Army intercepted several missiles, with one landing in an uninhabited area.
The conflict has further escalated with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels targeting Saudi vessels, sparking concerns over potential disruptions in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. President Trump has indicated a strong US response if Saudi ports were blockaded, referencing past air campaigns against Houthi targets.
In the Strait of Hormuz, the IRGC warned vessels against transiting without coordination with Tehran, challenging President Trump's earlier statement about targeting Iranian infrastructure in response to any aggression.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed overnight strikes on Iranian maritime capabilities, aiming to weaken Iran's threat to commercial shipping. Despite significant costs to both nations, with US expenses reaching $37.5 billion, tensions remain high as a previously reached cease-fire has collapsed. Additional US troops and resources have been deployed to the area, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.
The conflict has resulted in casualties on both sides, including four US service members killed since the resumption of hostilities. In Manila, Rubio also addressed allegations of Russian assistance to Iran, though he refrained from discussing intelligence matters in detail.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on these reports, maintaining a neutral stance amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.