U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized during a Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Bahrain that the final U.S.-Iran peace agreement will safeguard the interests of allies and partners. Addressing representatives, Rubio stated, “We are open for peace that is enduring and real and doesn’t undermine the security and prosperity of the U.S. or its allies.” His remarks aimed to secure regional support for the deal, which seeks to resolve the Middle East conflict.
The Revolutionary Guard Corps in Iran issued warnings against unauthorized crossings of the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that non-compliant vessels “will be dealt with.” The military also criticized a Liberian oil tanker for navigating an alternative route near Oman’s shore, calling such actions “unacceptable and extremely dangerous.” Iran has proposed future maritime service fees for passage through the strait, but the U.S. maintains it is an international waterway immune to tolls.
Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon reached a final round at the U.S. State Department in Washington, signaling potential progress toward a political resolution. The talks follow ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon despite a declared ceasefire. U.S. officials have framed the discussions as a critical step toward a “commitment of intent,” though questions remain about the durability of any agreement.
Brent crude oil prices fell below $74 per barrel on Thursday, remaining above pre-conflict levels seen in late February. The decline reflects gradual resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz under the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding. However, tensions persist as Iran’s military reinforces its control over maritime routes, rejecting U.S. objections to its proposed fees.
Rubio warned that Iranian tolls on international waterways could trigger broader global disruptions. “If we accepted that nations can charge for access based on proximity to their territory, this would spread like a contagion,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining shared maritime principles. The U.S. remains committed to resolving tensions with Iran but has ruled out concessions that compromise international norms.
Clashes in southern Lebanon claimed the life of an Israeli soldier, Master Sergeant Basil Sweid, 32, whose vehicle overturned during operations. His death brings the total Israeli military fatalities in the region to 37 since early March, with one civilian contractor also killed. Fighting between Israeli forces and Iran-backed Hezbollah continues despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
