US SAYS IRAN OIL EXPORTS BLOCKED AT HORMUZ

What happened: Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US has effectively blocked Iranian oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz while allowing crude from other countries to reach global markets. Key numbers: Rubio said 13 million to 14 million barrels of oil pass through the strait daily. Remarks made October 15, released by the State Department October 19. Figures were not independently verified. Why it matters: Rubio said the strategy aims to weaken Tehran's economy without disrupting international energy supplies, and that US forces escort commercial vessels against Iranian attacks.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US has effectively blocked Iranian oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz while allowing crude from other countries to reach global markets.

Rubio said the strategy aims to weaken Tehran's economy without disrupting international energy supplies, and that US forces escort commercial vessels against Iranian attacks.