U.S. Ends "Operation Epic Fury" in Iran; Rubio Signals Pivot to Diplomatic Negotiations

In an interview with ABC News on Tuesday, May 5, Rubio confirmed that the defense forces achieved their primary objectives, leading to the termination of the operation. He further clarified that Washington currently has no plans for immediate new military actions against Tehran, signaling a shift in the administration's strategy following the intense conflict that resulted in the deaths of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking military officials.

Secretary Rubio emphasized that President Donald Trump is now focused on securing a comprehensive peace agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that addresses all critical outstanding issues between the two nations. A key priority for the United States remains ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz stays completely open to safeguard global economic stability. While a ceasefire has been in place since April 8, the three-week offensive and subsequent counterattacks on U.S. bases and Israel have left Iran’s military and civilian infrastructure heavily damaged and caused at least 3,000 casualties. Despite the heavy losses on both sides, the U.S. administration is now indicating a willingness to return to the negotiating table to resolve the crisis and stabilize the region.