Rubio signals pause in Iran strikes as Tehran offers Hormuz reopening deal

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday there is no need for further major military operations against Iran, as diplomatic efforts to end the eight-month war intensify. Tehran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours if Washington meets its demands. Rubio stated the economic campaign against Iran has been so devastating that additional attacks are unnecessary, following President Donald Trump's remarks about "positive momentum" toward resolving the conflict. Iran's blockade of Hormuz has driven oil prices higher, contributing to Republican losses in last week's midterm elections. Iran's conditions include ending the war, unfreezing assets, and lifting oil sanctions, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying the proposal remains on the table. Qatar and Pakistan are leading mediation efforts, while analysts note the US has become more flexible after the midterms.