Iran's demands over the Strait of Hormuz would set a dangerous precedent, Rubio warns Asian leaders

MANILA, Philippines — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Asian leaders Wednesday that Iran's demand to control and collect tolls in the Strait of Hormuz would threaten the world's economy and set a precedent that could be repeated elsewhere in the world. 'If we create a precedent in the Middle East where a nation state can decide that they are going to control an international waterway, charge a toll and if you don't pay them, blow up your ships, we have created a very dangerous precedent which will repeat itself in other parts of the world, including in this region.' Washington's top diplomat also renewed allegations that Iran has reneged on commitments under a failed peace deal. Rubio said Iran 'has been reaching out to the United States, both directly and indirectly, to engage in talks about settling the differences,' but gave no indication that the U.S. was considering returning to peace talks with Iran.