Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, stated that Venezuela is becoming a base for the Iranian regime and the Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah, emphasizing the close ties between the two and criticizing the lack of discussion regarding Iranian presence in Venezuela. He noted that both the IRGC and Hezbollah are active in South America, with Venezuela being a significant stronghold for them, especially for the IRGC.

Rubio highlighted the hostility of the Iranian regime towards the U.S., asserting that Venezuela is the location where Iran has raised its flag in the Western Hemisphere, in full cooperation with the Maduro regime. He stressed the necessity of overthrowing Maduro's government, envisioning a Venezuela free from Iranian influence and drug trafficking.

In recent weeks, U.S. military presence in the Caribbean and near Venezuela has significantly increased, with American forces reportedly killing at least 75 individuals in multiple operations against suspected drug trafficking vessels. Concurrently, President Trump has authorized CIA activities in Venezuela, fueling speculation about the potential for full-scale military conflict.