Iran war live updates: Tuesday to mark 'most intense' US strikes, Hegseth says - ABC7

Rubio: World will be 'safer and a better place when this mission is accomplished'

At an event honoring wrongful detainees and hostages, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Monday that Iran's retaliation laid bare the threat it poses to countries near and far.

"They are trying to hold the world hostage. They are attacking their neighbors. They are attacking neighboring countries, their energy infrastructure, their civilian population, they're attacking embassies," he said. "This is a terrorist government. This is a terroristic regime."

He also offered a moment of silence for the seven killed Americans.

"We all are all in awe of their service, of their bravery, of their courage, and our hearts and our support extend out to their families in this very difficult moment, and the families of these incredible heroes," he said.

-ABC News' Shannon Kingston