Rubio says US backs Lebanon’s government, calls Hezbollah an obstacle and warns Iran over ceasefire and Hormuz tensions

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington wants Lebanon’s legitimate government to be strong and stressed the need to support it while cutting off Hezbollah’s sources of funding.

Speaking to reporters, Rubio said Hezbollah is “not only targeting Israel, but also Lebanon,” describing the group as an obstacle to strengthening the Lebanese state. He added that the United States would deal only with the Lebanese government and not negotiate with Hezbollah.

Rubio said Hezbollah “would not exist without Iran,” noting that the group has been weakened but still retains the ability to cause harm.

On Iran, Rubio said the United States expects to receive Tehran’s response on Friday regarding a proposal aimed at ending the war, expressing hope that it would lead to “a serious negotiation process.”

He also accused Iran of attempting to control the Strait of Hormuz, calling such actions “unacceptable.”

Rubio warned that if the ceasefire with Iran collapses and attacks resume, the United States would respond militarily. He added that President Donald Trump believes Iran poses a threat that “must be dealt with.”