The US president has declared that ships from nations not involved in the conflict with Iran, currently stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, will be assisted in leaving on Monday morning. Trump made this announcement on Truth Social, unveiling a new initiative called ‘Project Freedom’ set to commence the following day as a humanitarian endeavor. The aim is to release vessels stuck in the global shipping route, freeing up entities affected by the blockade caused by the conflict that began when US-Israeli missiles targeted Tehran on February 28, leading Iran to obstruct the passage critical for about 20% of global oil transportation.
Following failed negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, between US and Iranian representatives, the US navy initiated a blockade on Iran’s ports. Trump specified that only innocent bystanders caught in the situation will be permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz on Monday. He emphasized that various countries, uninvolved in the Middle Eastern dispute, have sought assistance to release their vessels trapped in the strait.
Referred to as “Project Freedom,” the process will start on Monday morning local time in the Middle East. Concurrently, Iran has proposed a 14-point plan to the US aimed at ending the conflict and has requested a 30-day extension to the ceasefire. While acknowledging progress in negotiations, the president warned of a forceful response if the humanitarian operation is disrupted.
Trump highlighted that the ship movements aim to assist those unjustly affected by circumstances, emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of the initiative. He underlined the importance of goodwill among conflicting parties and cautioned against any interference, stressing the necessity to deal with disruptions forcefully.
