US Announces Military Mission to Hormuz Strait Amid Iran Tensions

US President Donald Trump has announced a new naval mission called Project Freedom, aimed at assisting ships navigating through the Strait of Hormuz. The operation is set to commence on Monday.

Iran has confirmed receipt of a US response to its peace proposal, according to top Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi. Iran’s stance on the matter remains unchanged, with Azizi stating that any US interference in the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reports that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains critical due to ongoing military operations. Additionally, Israeli forces have been involved in recent incidents, including dropping flares over Braachit and shelling the outskirts of several towns in northern Israel.

On February 28, the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, leading to Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz. The strait is a critical waterway for global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, with one-fifth of international trade passing through it.

Oil prices have remained relatively stable despite Trump’s announcement, with the international benchmark Brent crude remaining essentially flat on Monday morning.

Source: Al Jazeera