President Donald Trump has announced a temporary suspension of Project Freedom, the U.S. military operation dedicated to escorting stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The pause comes as Washington nears a potential final settlement with Tehran to end the current conflict.
Despite the pause in escorts, the President clarified that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports remains “in full force and effect.”
Negotiating from Strength
In a statement posted to Truth Social, President Trump noted that the decision followed requests from Pakistan and other regional allies. He cited “tremendous military success” during the campaign as the leverage that has brought both parties to the negotiating table.
“We have mutually agreed that… Project Freedom will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalized and signed,” Trump stated.
‘Operation Epic Fury’ Concludes
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the primary phase of U.S. combat operations, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, has officially ended. However, Rubio maintained a firm stance on the requirements for lasting peace, emphasizing that Iran must:
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Comply with U.S. demands regarding its nuclear program.
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Permanently reopen the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping.
Rubio also pointed toward China’s role in the crisis, noting that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is currently in Beijing. Rubio argued that as an export-heavy economy, China has a significant vested interest in ensuring the Strait remains open, calling the U.S. naval efforts a “favour to the world.”
Continued Tensions in the Strait
The pause follows a volatile 36-hour window. Under Project Freedom, U.S.-escorted ships faced threats from Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, which warned of a “firm response” to any vessels deviating from Tehran-approved routes.
While the United Arab Emirates reported intercepting drones and missiles allegedly launched from Iran, Tehran has “categorically” denied any recent offensive operations, claiming their forces have remained inactive during the ceasefire.
U.S. military leaders have indicated that while the pause is in effect, forces remain positioned to resume combat operations immediately if negotiations fail.
