Cernay-la-ville: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States anticipates its military operation against Iran will wrap up "in a matter of weeks, not months," asserting that objectives can be achieved without deploying ground troops. The remarks were made during a press availability following a meeting with G7 foreign ministers in France, as the Trump administration seeks to de-escalate hostilities amid economic concerns.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Rubio emphasized the operation's progress, stating it is on or ahead of schedule. He stressed the importance of completing the mission, which includes dismantling Iran's missile capabilities and its Navy and Air Force, without the need for ground troops. Rubio highlighted the dispatch of additional U.S. troops to the region as a preparation for potential contingencies, not as a prelude to ground engagement.

Washington has intensified diplomatic efforts to prevent a prolonged conflict, including a 15-point peace proposal to Iran through Pakistani mediators and extending a pause on strikes against Iran's energy infrastructure. Rubio expressed confidence in the U.S.'s ability to meet its objectives without ground forces, while still preparing for various scenarios.

Rubio criticized Iran's imposition of fees on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route, calling it illegal and dangerous. He urged global cooperation to secure the waterway, stressing the need for a coalition of countries, especially those reliant on the strait for oil imports, to confront the issue.

He also underscored the necessity for a postwar coalition to ensure the strait's safety and reaffirmed the U.S.'s willingness to participate in such efforts. Rubio mentioned ongoing exchanges awaiting Iran's response to the peace proposal, indicating readiness for negotiations once clarification is received.