Allowing Iran control of Hormuz 'dangerous precedent', Rubio tells ASEAN

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Southeast Asian foreign ministers on Wednesday that Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent with consequences beyond the Middle East.

His comments came as US Central Command said it had struck military targets in Iran for the "11th consecutive night" to curb Tehran's ability to threaten shipping through the waterway.

Why does Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz matter?

Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz would let Tehran dictate the terms of a major global trade route, according to Rubio. He warned that letting one nation charge tolls or threaten ships in an international waterway would encourage similar actions in other regions. Rubio said this threatens the basic principle of freedom of navigation.

What did Rubio say about Iran and the Strait of Hormuz?

Rubio told ASEAN envoys in Manila that Iran is demanding a right it does not hold under any existing legal mechanism. "If we create a precedent in the Middle East where a nation-state can decide to control an international waterway, charge a toll, and blow up your ships if you don't pay, we have created a very dangerous precedent that will repeat itself in other parts of the world, including this region," he said. He added that this threat to freedom of navigation "cannot be allowed to happen."

How does this connect to the South China Sea dispute?

Rubio's remarks came as ASEAN members and China continue to clash over overlapping claims in the South China Sea, another vital trade corridor. His arrival in the Philippines on Tuesday coincided with US condemnation of a recent clash between Chinese and Philippine sailors in the disputed waters. Rubio is set to meet Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Wednesday during the summit, alongside talks with Quad partners India, Australia and Japan.

Is the US still open to negotiating with Iran?

Rubio said the United States remains open to diplomacy with Iran, but questioned Tehran's seriousness about talks. "The United States remains open and willing to engage in positive and constructive negotiations and discussions, provided that the commitments made are honored," he said. He added that Washington will act to protect its interests and allies if Iran continues resisting serious negotiation.