Washington, July 20 (SANA)U.S. Secretary of StateMarco Rubiosaid on Monday that Iran was using theStrait of Hormuzas leverage in the ongoingMiddle East conflict, urging other countries to contribute more to safeguarding one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

Speaking before departing for the Philippines to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Rubio said, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP), that “Iran, or elements within Iran, are trying to control the strait and use it as a means of pressuring the world.”

He said theUnited Stateswould continue taking the necessary measures to ensure the security of global shipping, but stressed that other nations should share the burden by providing additional financial and military support.

Rubio said Washington remained open to a diplomatic resolution, provided any agreement was “genuine and binding.” He added that the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran had collapsed following recent Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

He warned that the memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran could not remain in force if Iran continued violations, while reiterating that the United States remained committed to pursuing a diplomatic solution.

The conflict between the United States and Iran entered its ninth consecutive day on Monday, with both sides continuing to exchange strikes following recent Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.