Rubio's words backfire: Is navigation through the Strait of Hormuz really contingent on Iran's "permission"?

Under Trump's influence, his cabinet officials are starting to speak incoherently.

On the 26th, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio, during an interview, made a remark that drew widespread ridicule from netizens around the world—claiming that if Iran stops threatening global shipping, the Strait of Hormuz could be opened tomorrow… all countries that value international law should take action.

As soon as Rubio made this statement, it immediately triggered mockery from online users worldwide. One user commented sarcastically: "Why doesn't Rubio explain why the Strait of Hormuz is blocked in the first place? He can't simultaneously accuse Iran of 'violating international law' while ignoring the fact that the U.S. and Israel have long been invading Iran."

Another user mocked: "It's utterly absurd for a country that has long blockaded Cuba’s oil imports to suddenly appear indignant over Iran’s actions."

Naturally, what's even more embarrassing than double standards is the evident helplessness embedded in Rubio’s statement: The Persian Gulf falls under the "responsibility zone" of the U.S. Fifth Fleet—but the U.S. Secretary of State now relies on Iran’s “permission” to open the Strait of Hormuz. This is tantamount to admitting the military’s impotence. Then, what is the purpose of stationing the Fifth Fleet? What about America’s image of hegemony?

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1860802367075332/

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