US launches 'Project Freedom' to escort ships through Strait of Hormuz amid positive Iran talks

US President tDonald Trump said the United States plans to begin escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz from Monday as negotiations with Iran continue.

Speaking on Sunday, Trump said US representatives “are having very positive discussions” with Iran as both countries exchange fresh peace proposals aimed at easing tensions linked to the ongoing conflict in the region.

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US special envoy Steve Witkoff also confirmed talks are continuing, telling CNN that “we’re in conversation” when asked about negotiations with Tehran.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Washington had responded to Iran’s latest proposal through Pakistan and that Tehran was reviewing the American reply.

Trump said the new maritime security effort would be called “Project Freedom.”

The operation comes after increasing concerns over attacks and instability near the strategic shipping route, which carries a major portion of the world’s oil supplies.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a bulk carrier travelling near the Iranian coast had been “attacked by multiple small craft.”

The conflict has also sharply affected fuel prices. The average cost of regular petrol in the United States has reportedly risen by nearly 50 percent since the Iran war began on 28 February.