Secretary Rubio [UPI Yonhap News]

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on the 5th (local time) that "Epic Fury," a military operation launched by the United States against Iran in late February, has achieved its objectives and concluded.

He also stated that the U.S. is currently conducting a defensive "Liberation Project" as a "goodwill gesture" to help ships trapped in the Strait of Hormuz escape. This appears to be an effort to circumvent Congress's "60-day limit" and seek an exit strategy while appeasing a worsening public opinion.

Secretary Rubio, who also serves as White House National Security Advisor, held a press conference in the White House briefing room, stating, "Operation Epic Fury is over. President Donald Trump has notified Congress. That phase is complete. We are now in the Liberation Project."

'Epic Fury' was the name given to the U.S. military operation against Iran launched on February 28th. President Trump recently sent a letter to Congress notifying them that "hostilities that began on February 28, 2026, have ended," which was interpreted as an attempt to bypass the 60-day provision in the War Powers Act, which allows for the use of force abroad without congressional approval.

Secretary Rubio repeatedly emphasized that while U.S. forces would respond if Iran attacked first, the Liberation Project is fundamentally defensive in nature.

He argued, "The primary responsibility for the Liberation Project rests with the United States, as we are the only nation capable of projecting power in that region," and although ships from other countries are trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. is undertaking the Liberation Project out of 'goodwill'."

When asked why the U.S. must undertake the Liberation Project, he explained that the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would impact the global economy, thereby affecting the U.S. economy in the long term, and that if the situation in the Strait of Hormuz were left unchecked, similar incidents could occur in other international waterways.

President Trump has argued that since the U.S. relies little on oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz, countries with vested interests should take the initiative to reopen the strait. However, Secretary Rubio's statement acknowledged U.S. strategic interests tied to the Strait of Hormuz.

Secretary Rubio stated that Iran is attempting to control the Strait of Hormuz and establish a "New Normal," urging, "This is completely illegal and outrageous, and all countries worldwide should join us in condemning Iran and taking action."

He mentioned that several countries have contacted them expressing willingness to take action, but he did not disclose the names of specific countries.

Secretary Rubio [EPA Yonhap News]

Secretary Rubio accused Iran of piracy, stating that at least 10 civilian sailors have died due to the blockade by Iran, leaving them trapped and isolated in the Strait of Hormuz without proper assistance.

Secretary Rubio announced that the U.S. is pursuing a United Nations Security Council resolution to open the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "true test for the United Nations." A similar resolution led by Bahrain last month failed due to vetoes from China and Russia.

Secretary Rubio also urged China to directly tell Iran, "You are villains, and do not hold the global economy hostage," as Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz also harms China.

He stated that Taiwan would be a topic of discussion during President Trump's visit to China next week, adding, "We do not want to see any destabilizing events occur regarding Taiwan or any region in the Indo-Pacific, and we believe this is mutually beneficial for both the U.S. and China."

During the press conference, Secretary Rubio described Cuba as a failed state with an incompetent regime, calling it an "unacceptable situation." He also mentioned that he plans to discuss humanitarian aid to Cuba through the Catholic Church with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican soon.

Regarding a photo he posted on X just before the press conference with the Commander of the U.S. Southern Command with a map of Cuba in the background, he simply said he thought it would be a good idea. President Trump has been openly expressing his intention to target Cuba after Iran.

Secretary Rubio conducted the press conference with a relaxed demeanor, including jokes, for 50 minutes. In response to a barrage of questions from reporters, he quipped, "I received the seating chart, but I don't know where I put it. Some of you had red Xs marked on it. Just kidding."