Donald Trump, President of the United States, announced on Tuesday evening that the U.S. military operation known as “Project Freedom” in the Strait of Hormuz has been temporarily suspended.
Kabul 24: The decision comes after what he described as “major progress” in negotiations with Iran aimed at ending the war and reopening the strategic waterway.In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote: “At the request of Pakistan and several other countries, and in light of the tremendous military success achieved in our campaign against Iran, as well as the significant progress made toward a complete and final agreement with Iranian representatives, we have mutually agreed to temporarily halt Project Freedom for a short period.
The blockade will remain fully in force while we determine whether a final, signable agreement can be reached.”Project Freedom was launched on Monday with the goal of escorting and guiding commercial vessels trapped in the Strait of Hormuz.
The United States established a defensive umbrella over the strait to protect ships from Iranian attacks and create a safe passage corridor. This came in response to Iran’s effective closure of the waterway since the beginning of U.S. and Israeli strikes. Iranian forces had mined the waters and repeatedly launched missiles and drones at passing vessels.
The start of the operation triggered direct exchanges of fire between American and Iranian forces. In retaliation, Iran also fired missiles toward the United Arab Emirates, escalating tensions beyond the strait itself.
Trump’s decision to suspend the operation marks a significant development amid weeks of intense military confrontation.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical chokepoints, carrying approximately 20% of global crude oil shipments. Its closure has caused major disruptions and volatility in energy markets worldwide.
This tactical retreat occurs as the Trump administration claims that successful U.S. and Israeli strikes have significantly weakened Iran’s negotiating position.
However, officials emphasized that the suspension does not mean the end of the blockade, which remains fully active. Any final agreement will depend on Iran accepting U.S. conditions.
Analysts suggest the pause could open a window for diplomacy, but warn that if talks fail, military operations could resume with even greater intensity.
Details of the ongoing negotiations have not been fully disclosed, though sources indicate discussions cover the reopening of the strait, guarantees for maritime security, and possible limited sanctions relief.
The temporary suspension of Project Freedom has drawn mixed international reactions. Some view it as a pragmatic move by Trump in response to regional complexities, while others interpret it as a retreat under pressure. Further updates on the status of the talks and Iran’s official position are expected in the coming hours.
