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8 May 2026, 15:48

Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, stated that the U.S. military action against Iran early Friday was "separate and distinct" from the "Epic Fury" operation, and the United States will continue to respond in a "defensive" manner.

Rubio announced on Friday in Rome, the capital of Italy, to reporters that the "Epic Fury," which he said had ended earlier this week, was "an offensive operation designed to destroy their missile launch platforms, navy, and air force." He added that what happened hours earlier involved "American destroyers moving in international waters that were fired upon by the Iranians, and the U.S. responded defensively to protect itself." The senior U.S. diplomat said, "Only foolish countries do not respond when they are fired upon. And we are not a foolish country."

When Rubio was asked whether the U.S. had communicated red lines to Iran, he replied, "The red line is clear: if they threaten Americans, they will be destroyed." The U.S. Secretary of State also announced that Washington expects to receive Iran's response to its proposal to end the war on Friday. Rubio explained, "We will see what this response includes. Our hope is that it is something that can lead us into a serious negotiation process." He also condemned Iran's efforts to control the Strait of Hormuz, stating, "Iran now claims ownership of this international waterway and the right to control it... This is an unacceptable action that they are trying to normalize."
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