Marco Rubio says US is "with ASEAN 100 per cent" amid Iran warnings

At a Manila meeting of Southeast Asian foreign ministers, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Iran’s intent to seize control of the Strait of Hormuz and levy tolls would endanger the global economy and set a dangerous example for other regions. Reaffirming Washington’s backing for ASEAN despite the Middle Eastern war, Rubio stated the United States stands fully with the bloc. The gathering, which also included top diplomats from China, Russia, and others, additionally addressed China’s assertive actions in disputed waters and the broader impact of the Iran conflict on energy‑dependent Southeast Asia.