US President Trump Announces Military Mission to Hormuz Strait Region

US President Donald Trump has announced a new naval mission called Project Freedom to assist with navigating ships through the Strait of Hormuz. The operation is set to begin on Monday.

The US president made the announcement following Iran’s statement that it had received a response to its peace proposal. Iran took control of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, in the days following attacks by the US and Israel on February 28.

According to UKMTO, the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains critical due to ongoing military operations. Iran’s top lawmaker, Ebrahim Azizi, has stated that any US interference in the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire.

On Monday morning, oil prices remained largely unchanged despite Trump’s announcement. The international benchmark Brent crude price was flat. Overnight, Israeli forces dropped flares over Braachit and shelled the outskirts of several towns in northern Israel.

The situation remains fluid as the conflict enters its 66th day.

Source: Al Jazeera