OAN Staff Jenna Lee
5:58 PM – Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that at least 10 sailors have died ahead of President Donald Trump’s “Project Freedom” initiative.
While speaking at a White House press briefing, Rubio said the United States would continue to use its assets to defend freedom of navigation through the key maritime passage.
“They’re isolated, they’re starving, they’re vulnerable and at least 10 sailors have died as a result, civilian sailors. Under this president, under President Trump, the United States will help our friends,” said Rubio, omitting additional details.
Rubio also said the United States is taking defensive action in enforcing its blockade of Iranian ports, adding that the conflict with Iran is not over.
“We are only responding if attacked first. This is a defensive operation. If no shots are fired at these ships and no shots are fired at us, we’re not firing shots, but if we’re fired on, we will respond,” he told the press.
The secretary of state echoed remarks from War Secretary Pete Hegseth, saying the United States has been in contact with ships advising them to move out of the strait.
Hundreds of ships are currently positioned to pass through the waterway. Before the U.S. and Israel launched strikes in the region on February 28th in an effort to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear program, the action followed heightened tensions over maritime security and concerns about disruptions to global shipping routes. According to Hegseth, roughly 20% of global oil supplies moved through the strait daily prior to the escalation.
Rubio said Tehran should “accept the reality of the situation,” adding that U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner continue to seek a diplomatic solution.
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