Addressing the pressing issue of the Iran conflict, Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a compelling address on Monday at the State Department. He focused on what he termed “hostage diplomacy,” labeling the Iranian government as “the world’s foremost hostage-taker and top sponsor of terrorism.”

During the “U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Flag Raising Ceremony,” Rubio highlighted that Iran’s recent actions in the wake of the strikes reinforced the United States’ assertions about the significant threat Iran poses both regionally and globally.

The event coincided with the 19th anniversary of Robert Levinson’s disappearance in Iran. Levinson, who dedicated 22 years as a special agent with the FBI, was honored in Rubio’s speech, which was attended by his sons, Dan and Doug.

The Monday gathering was held on the 19th anniversary of the disappearance of Robert Levinson in Iran. Levinson served in the FBI as a special agent for 22 years. His sons, Dan and Doug, were in attendance for Rubio’s speech.