US to assist ships blocked by Iran in Hormuz Strait

US President Announces Plan to Assist Ships in Strait of Hormuz

United States President Donald Trump has announced a new initiative, dubbed Project Freedom, aimed at helping ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation is set to begin on Monday, with the US pledge to “guide” vessels safely through the restricted waterway.

According to Trump, the campaign was requested by countries whose vessels are stranded in the strait, which he referred to as “neutral and innocent bystanders.” Many of these ships are reportedly running low on food and other essential supplies. Trump stated that any interference with the operation would need to be “dealt with forcefully.”

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that it will begin supporting merchant vessels seeking to freely transit the strait from Monday. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper noted that the support is essential for regional security and the global economy.

Iranian officials have expressed concerns about the move, warning that any “American interference” in the strait would be considered a breach of the truce. Ebrahim Azizi, head of the Iranian parliament’s National Security Commission, stated that the US should not attempt to manage the Strait of Hormuz on its own.

The plan has sparked debate among experts, with some questioning whether it is a genuine humanitarian effort or a negotiating tactic. Negar Mortazavi, a senior fellow at the Center for International Policy, noted that any US involvement in escorting ships through the strait could bring US forces closer to Iranian territory, potentially escalating tensions.

The operation’s details remain unclear, and it is uncertain whether coordination with Tehran will be involved. Trump has suggested that diplomatic discussions are ongoing with Iran, but the outcome of these talks remains uncertain.

Source: Al Jazeera