The United States will begin escorting neutral foreign vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump announced Sunday, framing the move as a humanitarian effort.
He said the initiative, called Project Freedom, aims to help stranded ships running low on essential supplies. Meanwhile, US Central Command confirmed forces will support the mission starting May 4.
The deployment includes guided missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft, and about 15000 service members, strengthening regional security operations. Additionally, officials said the escorts will maintain freedom of navigation in the critical waterway.
However, Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal to end the conflict, calling it unacceptable in remarks to Kan News. Nevertheless, Washington submitted a revised draft agreement in response to Tehran’s fourteen point plan.
At the same time, tensions intensified after a tanker was struck by unknown projectiles about 125 kilometres north of Fujairah, according to UKMTO. Although the crew remained safe, authorities have not identified the attackers.
In response, Iranian official Ibrahim Azizi warned that any US involvement would violate the ceasefire. He also dismissed Washington’s role, asserting that regional waterways cannot be governed by external declarations or political messaging.
Consequently, analysts expect heightened naval activity and diplomatic friction in coming days, as both sides position forces and negotiate terms. Furthermore, shipping companies are monitoring developments closely, weighing security risks against commercial pressures. Ultimately, the success of Project Freedom will depend on coordination, restraint, and progress toward a broader political settlement. Observers note that sustained dialogue could ease tensions, while further incidents might escalate confrontation across the Gulf region.
