Manila: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a stern warning to Tehran, responding to Iranian provocations in the region. The United States is amplifying its rhetoric against Iran after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi promised retaliation against President Trump’s threats to target Iranian infrastructure due to attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, Rubio, speaking at the Association of South Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings, emphasized the severity of the US response, stating, “The presidents policy is a head for an eye. They will pay a very heavy price for the things theyre doing. Theyre already paying a very heavy price.” His remarks come amid escalating conflicts as Iran and its allies expand their military actions.
Iran’s military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps announced strikes on multiple US bases in Kuwait, retaliating against recent American attacks on Iranian targets. The IRGC claimed responsibility for attacks on Ali Al Salem air base, Camp Udairi, and a telecommunications tower, while the Iranian army targeted Camp Doha, Ali Al Salem, and Camp Arifjan, as reported by state television.
Kuwait’s military reported intercepting “drone threats” following several days of Iranian strikes. Meanwhile, Jordan confirmed intercepting three missiles, with a fourth landing harmlessly in an uninhabited area. Additionally, Saudi state media reported that a Saudi-flagged vessel was hit in the Red Sea, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels claiming responsibility for missile and drone strikes on two Saudi tankers.
The Houthis have signaled intentions to blockade Saudi Red Sea ports, potentially exacerbating tensions over the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump indicated that the US would respond decisively to any Saudi blockade, referencing previous US air campaigns against the Houthis.
In the Strait of Hormuz, the IRGC warned that any uncoordinated vessel would face consequences. This statement challenges President Trump’s assertion that the US would target Iranian infrastructure in retaliation for any Iranian aggression.
The ongoing conflict has incurred significant costs, with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reporting a rise in US expenses to $37.5 billion. Despite the mounting costs, President Trump expressed skepticism about Iran’s readiness for negotiations, suggesting that Tehran frequently attempts to renegotiate agreements.
The Wall Street Journal highlighted the deployment of additional US troops, medics, and weaponry to the region. Jordan reported shooting down multiple missiles and drones, and air-raid sirens were activated in Bahrain.
Since hostilities resumed, four US service members have died, with three perishing in an Iranian strike on a Jordanian base and one due to an unexploded Iranian drone in Iraq. In Manila, Rubio addressed concerns about Russian support for Iran but refrained from commenting on intelligence matters, emphasizing Iran’s independent development of missile and drone capabilities. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to address these allegations directly.