U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Manila, Philippines, on July 22, 2026. Rubio stated that while agreements have been reached, commitments have not been fulfilled. He expressed concern over Iran’s lack of seriousness in negotiations.
Rubio emphasized that the U.S. remains open to diplomacy and is prepared to negotiate disputes. He warned that a state controlling an international waterway and demanding tolls could set a dangerous precedent. Rubio remarked, “If this principle is threatened, I believe the rules that have formed the basis of the global economy and international trade for the last 150 years will also be under threat.”
