US shifts from strikes on Iran to naval blockade and sanctions, US Navy gains Hormuz control

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told foreign counterparts that Washington does not plan to resume combat operations against Iran, instead focusing on economic pressure through naval blockade and new sanctions. The policy, outlined in phone calls, will remain in effect at least until the US midterm elections, after which a new military campaign could be considered. Rubio did not rule out strikes if Iran attacks first. US Navy mine-clearing in the Strait of Hormuz shifted control of the waterway from Iran to the US, eliminating a key Iranian bargaining chip. Presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will brief CENTCOM on Wednesday.