US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sent a clear message to Tehran, declaring from Abu Dhabi that Iran will not be able to impose tolls on the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that such a move would be contrary to international law. “This is an international waterway. No country is allowed to charge tolls or fees on an international waterway,” Rubio told reporters. “All countries in this region would agree with us,” he added.
Rubio’s stern warning: “Iran’s proxies are launching missiles”
Upon his arrival in Abu Dhabi, the US Secretary of State, speaking about the agreement framework with Iran, said: “That will certainly be discussed during these talks.” “There are certain points not included in the memorandum of understanding that will undoubtedly be discussed, but the memorandum itself absolutely needs to be examined,” he stated.
JUST IN: 🇺🇸 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the Strait of Hormuz:
“No country is allowed to charge tolls or fees on an international waterway.”
Rubio emphasized the principle of freedom of navigation through key global maritime routes. pic.twitter.com/CMs7cXrWws
— Asia Nexus (@nexusasian) June 23, 2026
“A careful reading of the memorandum of understanding clearly shows that when we speak, for example, of a full and permanent cessation of hostilities throughout the region, that is not possible as long as Iran’s proxies are launching missiles and drones from Iraq and engaging in terrorist activities, as Hamas and Hezbollah have done,” Marco Rubio added. It is noted that the US Secretary of State will meet with the leadership of the United Arab Emirates before traveling on to Kuwait and Bahrain.
Maintaining the balance
It is worth noting that the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain all host American military bases, which form the backbone of US security architecture in the Middle East. Should any of these countries reconsider their security relationship with the United States, even in a subtle way, it could have a significant impact on American military strategy in the region.
Accordingly, Rubio must walk a fine line, according to analysts. While he needs to reassure US regional allies, he must do so without appearing to undermine the memorandum of understanding. Trump continues to back the deal despite criticism from some Republican members of Congress, who have accused the administration of capitulating to Tehran.
