'Iran Troublemaker Of Region': Rubio Warns ASEAN Blockade Of Hormuz Sets Dangerous Precedent

Published 22 July 2026 · world

'Iran Troublemaker Of Region': Rubio Warns ASEAN Blockade Of Hormuz Sets Dangerous Precedent Published By, Last Updated: July 22, 2026, 16:23 IST US Secretary of

'Iran Troublemaker Of Region': Rubio Warns ASEAN Blockade Of Hormuz Sets Dangerous Precedent Published By, Last Updated: July 22, 2026, 16:23 IST US Secretary of State blamed Iran squarely for the war in West Asia and blamed that if Tehran is able to set the precedent of blocking straits, ASEAN could also be threatened. Rapid Read Marco Rubio called Iran the troublemaker of West Asia and warned ASEAN that blockades of straits could set a dangerous precedent. (Image source: Reuters) The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday warned the member states of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) that they could face a similar threat of blockade of the crucial straits if Iran is able to set such a precedent.

He made these remarks during a meeting with the foreign affairs secretaries of ASEAN members in an apparent bid to explain US actions in West Asia, while also holding Tehran responsible for the deteriorating situation there and calling the latter, ‘Troublemaker of the region’. Further he said, the US is engaged with Saudi Arabia, a crucial ally in the region, over the threat that Iran’s proxy, the Houthis, pose to the Bab el Mandeb waterway, the other crucial strait that connects Red Sea with the Arabian Sea. “At the gist of that issue is the fact Iran is in the middle of it. Talking about the troublemaker of the region, it’s Iran," he said, as reported by Al Jazeera.

News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Key Questions Answered What are the potential global impacts of a Hormuz blockade? A blockade of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts global energy markets, potentially causing oil prices to exceed $100 per barrel. Asian countries are expected to be hit hardest. How might ASEAN nations respond to this warning? ASEAN nations have voiced "serious concern" over renewed US-Iran hostilities and called for maximum restraint and dialogue. They also highlighted concerns over maritime security and urged the restoration of safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Could US actions in West Asia escalate regional tensions? US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned ASEAN states that Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz could set a dangerous precedent for global shipping.

ASEAN has expressed "serious concern" over renewed US-Iran hostilities and urged restraint. Location: Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: July 22, 2026, 16:23 IST News world 'Iran Troublemaker Of Region': Rubio Warns ASEAN Blockade Of Hormuz Sets Dangerous Precedent Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...