US warned by Iran not to intervene in Strait of Hormuz operations

US Launches Project Freedom to Assist Stranded Ships in Strait of Hormuz

The United States has announced plans to launch Project Freedom, a naval operation aimed at guiding ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. The initiative is set to begin on Monday and will be led by US Central Command.

According to President Trump, the project was requested by countries whose vessels are currently stranded in the strait. The US Navy will provide support with 15,000 military personnel, over 100 aircraft, warships, and drones.

Iran’s military has warned the US Navy to stay out of the Strait of Hormuz, stating that any foreign armed forces will be attacked if they intend to approach and enter the waterway. Ali Abdollahi, head of the forces’ unified command, made this statement on Monday.

The Iranian military has also advised commercial ships and oil tankers to refrain from moving unless they are coordinating with Iran. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has warned mariners that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains critical due to ongoing military operations.

US Central Command stated that its support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy. Admiral Brad Cooper, the CENTCOM commander, said that the operation will be conducted with caution and that any interference would be dealt with forcefully.

The launch of Project Freedom comes amid growing tensions in the region. Iran has been blocking nearly all shipping from the Gulf for over two months, leading to a surge in global energy prices. The US has maintained its naval blockade in the area.

The UKMTO reported earlier this week that a tanker off the coast of Fujairah in the UAE was hit by unknown projectiles, resulting in no environmental impact but injuring all crew members on board.

Source: Al Jazeera