International Desk
In a significant military move, the United States has launched “Project Freedom,” a mission aimed at escorting neutral foreign vessels safely through the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump announced that American naval ships would begin providing protection to stranded vessels starting Monday (May 4), characterizing the initiative as a humanitarian effort to assist ships running low on essential supplies.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the mission is being supported by guided-missile destroyers, over 100 aircraft, and 15,000 service members. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper emphasized that restoring freedom of navigation is vital for regional stability, although he clarified that the existing US naval blockade remains in effect. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions and reports of a tanker being struck by unidentified projectiles near the UAE’s Fujairah coast.
Iran has strongly condemned the US involvement, with Ibrahim Azizi, head of Iran’s National Security Commission, warning that any American interference in the waterway would be considered a violation of the ceasefire. Tehran dismissed the plan, asserting that the management of the strategic strait would not be dictated by Washington’s unilateral decisions. While the diplomatic standoff continues, President Trump has rejected Iran’s latest peace proposal as “unacceptable,” though the US has reportedly submitted a newly revised draft agreement in response to Tehran’s 14-point plan.