President Donald Trump has announced that the US will begin to escort ships out of the Strait of Hormuz from Monday, as the Iran war continues. He announced the effort would be named ‘Project Freedom’.
The move comes after countries around the world reportedly asked Washington for help in freeing vessels stranded in the key shipping lane, many of which are not involved in the conflict. In a statement, Mr Trump said the ships were “neutral and innocent bystanders” caught up in a crisis they had “absolutely nothing to do with”. He said the US would guide vessels safely through the restricted waterway so they could “get on with their business”, describing the mission as a humanitarian effort. The Strait of Hormuz has become a major flashpoint in the ongoing tensions involving Iran, with attacks, blockades and threats severely disrupting global shipping routes.
The US leader said he had instructed officials to assure those affected that the US would do everything possible to ensure ships and their crews are escorted safely out of the Strait.
He said in each case, vessels would not return until the area is considered safe for navigation again.
He added: “This process, Project Freedom, will begin Monday morning, Middle East time. I am fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all.
“The Ship movement is merely meant to free up people, companies, and Countries that have done absolutely nothing wrong – They are victims of circumstance.
“This is a Humanitarian gesture on behalf of the United States, Middle Eastern Countries but, in particular, the Country of Iran.”
The POTUS stated that many of the stranded vessels are running short of food and vital supplies needed to keep large crews healthy.
He added that there are also growing concerns about conditions on board as shortages that are beginning to take hold.
The President called the operation a “gesture of goodwill” after months of intense conflict and suggested it could help ease tensions between those involved in the crisis.
However, he warned that any attempt to disrupt the humanitarian effort would not be tolerated. Trump added that such interference would “unfortunately, have to be dealt with forcefully”.
The latest announcement comes just days after he issued a stark warning to Iran, saying the US was “locked and loaded” and could “blast the hell out of them” if a deal is not reached.
His comments underscored the escalating tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz at the centre of a growing standoff between the two sides.