WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a temporary halt to a newly launched naval escort mission in the Strait of Hormuz, signaling a renewed diplomatic push to reach a comprehensive agreement with Iran and de-escalate regional tensions.
The operation, dubbed “Project Freedom,” was initiated just a day earlier to facilitate the safe passage of commercial vessels through the critical النفط chokepoint. However, Trump stated on Truth Social that the mission would be paused following requests from mediators, including Pakistan, citing “significant progress” toward a potential deal with Tehran.
“We have mutually agreed that, while the blockade will remain in full force, Project Freedom will be paused briefly to assess whether a final agreement can be reached,” Trump said.
Despite the pause, Washington continues to enforce a blockade on Iranian ports as leverage in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, which began after joint US and Israeli strikes on February 28.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the offensive phase of the campaign—referred to as “Operation Epic Fury”—has concluded. He clarified that current US actions in the region are defensive in nature.
“The operation is over. We’re now in a defensive posture—there will be no engagement unless provoked,” Rubio told reporters.
Tensions in the Strait had escalated sharply in recent days, with reports of naval clashes and attacks on civilian shipping. The US claims to have sunk multiple Iranian vessels during the confrontation.
While a ceasefire declared on April 8 remains fragile, Washington maintains that its strategic objectives have been achieved, even as it prioritizes a negotiated resolution with Tehran.
By AFP
