US Shifts to Economic Pressure on Iran as Rubio Rules Out New Strikes

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has informed allied foreign ministers that the United States does not currently plan to launch new military strikes against Iran, signaling a strategic pivot toward economic pressure and maritime enforcement. The shift comes as the Trump administration rolls out a sweeping sanctions campaign and declares that U.S. forces have cleared all mines from the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global energy supplies.

Rubio conveyed the policy change during phone calls with several foreign counterparts in recent days, according to U.S. officials. He stated that a return to major combat operations is not being considered "for the time being," though officials emphasized that military action has not been ruled out entirely, particularly if Iran initiates an attack. The approach is expected to remain in place at least through the November midterm elections, after which a renewed military campaign could potentially be reconsidered.

The diplomatic messaging aligns with a new economic offensive. On Monday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced an initial sanctions package targeting nearly 60 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Iran. The measures...