Rubio Urges G7 Allies to Help Protect Strait of Hormuz Shipping

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged other nations Tuesday to help protect shipping from Iranian attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, but said his appeal received no response from Group of Seven counterparts during talks in Paris. Rubio said the United States will continue to defend vessels through the strategic waterway, which face ongoing drone attacks. He acknowledged a "Catch-22" as allies like France require an end to fighting before providing minesweepers and other assistance. Rubio noted the U.S. gets no oil from the region and argued other countries should "step up," adding that a couple are considering it. The appeal came during G7 meetings also addressing Ukraine, where the U.S. has reduced defense assistance.