US Launches ‘Project Freedom’ to Clear Ships Stranded in Strait of Hormuz
The United States has begun a military-backed operation to escort thousands of trapped merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, BBC Business reported Monday. President Donald Trump called the mission “Project Freedom,” framing it as a humanitarian effort on behalf of nations worldwide.
What Project Freedom Involves
US Central Command confirmed the operation would deploy roughly 15,000 service personnel, guided-missile destroyers, and over 100 aircraft. Trump described the mission as a “humanitarian gesture,” adding that any interference would be “dealt with forcefully.” He said requests from multiple countries prompted the US to act, describing the stranded vessels as “innocent bystanders” caught in the conflict.
Iran’s military responded quickly, claiming its forces had blocked American and Israeli warships from entering the strait on Monday. Iranian commanders have previously warned that any foreign military presence inside the waterway would be treated as a hostile act. A senior Iranian official went further, suggesting a US incursion would constitute a violation of the current ceasefire in place since 8 April.
Also Read: Oil Prices Surge as Middle East Tensions Escalate
Why the Strait Matters So Much
Around 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas normally transits the Strait of Hormuz each year. Iran’s closure of the channel since the start of hostilities has disrupted global fuel markets and left an estimated 2,000 ships idle. Approximately 20,000 sailors remain stranded across the Gulf, with growing concern over dwindling food and medical supplies onboard.
The UK’s Maritime Trade Operations body reported Sunday that a tanker had been struck by an unidentified projectile inside the strait, though crew members were said to be unharmed.
Also Read: What Is the Strait of Hormuz and Why Does It Matter?
Peace Talks Remain Fragile
Trump said US and Iranian negotiators were holding “very positive” discussions, suggesting a deal could benefit all parties. Iran’s state media confirmed Tehran had received a US response to its 14-point peace proposal, delivered through Pakistan. The plan reportedly calls for a US military withdrawal from Iran’s borders, an end to the naval blockade, and a ceasefire agreement within 30 days.
Trump indicated Sunday, however, that the proposal was unacceptable in its current form. Iran’s foreign ministry separately stated that nuclear negotiations were not on the table, a position that conflicts directly with Washington’s core demands. Iran maintains its nuclear programme is entirely civilian in purpose.
Pakistan, meanwhile, confirmed it would return 22 crew members from the US-seized Iranian vessel Touska to Iranian authorities, describing the handover as a confidence-building step.
Read Next: Fed Holds Rates Steady Amid Global Economic Uncertainty
