Trump Launches “Project Freedom” to Clear Strait of Hormuz as Iran Talks Show Progress

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Washington will begin an operation to help commercial vessels leave the blocked Strait of Hormuz, describing the move as both humanitarian and strategic, while at the same time pointing to ongoing diplomatic contacts with Iran that he called “very positive.” The plan, named “Project Freedom,” is expected to start immediately and is aimed at assisting hundreds of ships and tens of thousands of sailors stranded in the Gulf since the escalation of the conflict.

According to Trump, the United States will “use best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait,” framing the initiative as support for countries and companies caught in the crisis rather than direct military intervention. Despite the strong language, initial reports indicate that the operation may not involve traditional naval escorts, but rather coordination of maritime traffic through the narrow waterway. At the same time, U.S. Central Command signaled a significant military presence behind the effort, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft, unmanned systems, and around 15,000 personnel.

The announcement comes against the backdrop of a prolonged standoff in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass. The waterway has effectively been blocked since the war began on February 28 with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, followed by Tehran’s retaliation and the imposition of mutual blockades. The disruption has driven oil prices above USD 120 per barrel and raised concerns about the broader global economic impact.

Tehran responded cautiously but firmly, warning that any U.S. interference could be interpreted as a violation of the ceasefire. Iranian officials have simultaneously put forward a 14-point proposal aimed at ending the conflict, reportedly including reopening the strait, lifting sanctions, and addressing broader regional tensions. While Trump suggested that talks could lead to “something very positive for all,” he also issued a warning that any disruption of the operation would be met “forcefully.”

The situation remains fluid. Around 850 to 900 vessels are still trapped in the Gulf, with an estimated 20,000 sailors onboard facing growing shortages of supplies. Isolated security incidents have already been reported in the area, underscoring the risks of renewed escalation. Although a ceasefire brokered in early April halted large-scale fighting, it has failed to restore normal shipping, leaving the region in a fragile balance between diplomacy and the threat of further conflict.