US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for a “Plan B” to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open if Iran refuses to lift what he described as a blockade.
Speaking to journalists after a NATO meeting in Sweden, Rubio warned of potential scenarios in which Iran could attempt to control the strategic waterway and impose tolls on maritime traffic.
“What if Iran decides: ‘we refuse to open the straits, we will control them and charge passage fees?’” Rubio said. “At that point, something must be done.”
He urged countries affected by the situation to begin preparing contingency plans, adding that he had received “many affirmations” when raising the issue during discussions.
“I don’t know if this would necessarily be a NATO mission, but certainly NATO countries could contribute to it,” he added.
European NATO members have previously rejected calls for military involvement in breaking any Iranian blockade, saying they would only support securing the sea route in the event of a stable peace agreement.
Rubio also said there had been “some progress” in discussions but emphasized that no agreement had yet been reached.
He noted that while the US prefers a negotiated solution, President Donald Trump has other options available if diplomacy fails, suggesting that further measures remain on the table.
