US Operation Pauses Amid Trumps Efforts to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

US President Trump Announces Suspension of “Project Freedom” Operation

Washington D.C. - US President Donald Trump has announced that the US military operation, known as “Project Freedom,” to move stranded ships out of the Strait of Hormuz has been paused temporarily.

According to a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, the decision was made at the request of Pakistan and other countries, and in light of progress towards a comprehensive agreement with Iranian representatives. Trump stated that while the blockade will remain in place, “Project Freedom” will be put on hold for a short period to determine whether the agreement can be finalized and signed.

The announcement comes as tensions escalate in the Gulf region, with reports of US military action against Iranian boats, cruise missiles, and drones in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates has also reported missile and drone attacks from Iran, while another commercial ship was hit by an unknown projectile.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a new map of the strait, expanding its claimed area of control, and warned vessels to adhere to designated corridors or face a “decisive response.”

In Washington, DC, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US has completed its offensive operations against Iran, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury.” He emphasized that Iran must pay a price for its actions in controlling the Strait of Hormuz.

The maritime chokepoint, which accounts for one-fifth of global energy supplies, has been effectively sealed by Iran since the US and Israel launched their military action on February 28. The closure of the strait has disrupted global trade, causing oil and fertilizer prices to rise.

Trump also stated that Iran’s military is no longer a significant threat, saying “they’re firing peashooters.” When asked what Iran would need to do to violate the ceasefire, Trump replied that they know what not to do.

Source: Al Jazeera