Trump Pauses Strait Escort Operation Amid Iran Talks Progress

Mintesinot Niggusie

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that a maritime escort operation in the Strait of Hormuz would be paused temporarily, citing "great progress" in talks toward a comprehensive agreement with Iran.

The decision affects a U.S.-led initiative known as "Project Freedom," which had been launched on Monday to escort stranded commercial tankers out of the Gulf amid severe disruption to shipping routes. Trump said the suspension followed what he described as a mutual understanding between the parties while negotiations continue, adding that a blockade in the waterway would remain in place.

The escort operation was introduced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of efforts to secure commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, where maritime traffic has been heavily affected since the escalation of conflict.

The strait has been effectively closed since the start of hostilities, cutting off about 20 percent of global oil flows and adding pressure to international energy markets. Trump's remarks came as tensions over maritime security in the Gulf remained elevated. U.S. officials have maintained that Iran should not be allowed to control access through the strategic waterway.

Iranian forces have previously threatened the use of mines, drones, missiles and fast-attack craft in the area, raising concerns over the safety of commercial vessels. Military operations have also continued alongside the escort mission, with the U.S. military reporting strikes on Iranian boats and drones operating in the region.