Trump Halts 'Project Freedom' Amid Progress in Iran Negotiations
Suspension of Project Freedom
Washington: President Donald Trump has decided to pause 'Project Freedom,' which was initiated to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, citing advancements in discussions with Iran aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.
In a message shared on Truth Social, Trump remarked, "Significant progress has been made towards a comprehensive agreement with Iranian representatives."
He elaborated, stating, "At the request of Pakistan and other nations, and considering our military achievements against Iran, we have collectively agreed to temporarily halt Project Freedom while we assess the potential for finalizing the agreement, although the blockade will remain in effect."
Launched just a day prior, Project Freedom aimed to guide ships that were stranded due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to safety. The operation was announced by Trump on Sunday, with the US Central Command beginning its execution the following day.
However, the initiative sparked tensions in the narrow waterway, a crucial passage for transporting a significant portion of the world's oil supply, as the UAE reported attacks on its vessels by Iran. The US also claimed to have neutralized several Iranian small boats.
Trump's announcement came shortly after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared the conclusion of Operation Epic Fury, which was initiated on February 28, stating that its goals had been met.
Rubio commented, "Operation Epic Fury is concluded. We achieved the objectives of that operation. We’re not advocating for further conflict; our preference is peace. What the President desires is a deal, which Iran has yet to pursue."
Regarding Project Freedom, Rubio noted that the mission aimed to rescue nearly 23,000 civilians from 87 nations who were stranded in the Persian Gulf and abandoned by the Iranian government.
"This is not an offensive operation. It is defensive, meaning there will be no engagement unless provoked. We are not initiating attacks, but we must respond if attacked or if a ship is under threat," Rubio explained.