Trump Pauses 'Project Freedom' as Iran Tensions Test Ceasefire in Strait of Hormuz
President Trump ordered a halt to 'Project Freedom,' a U.S. military mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, after initial operations drew fire from Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the offensive phase is over, though the ceasefire remains fragile.
Military Operation Paused
President Trump said Tuesday he has paused Project Freedom, a U.S. effort to guide commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
Shift in Strategy
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US military operation launched in February was "over," suggesting the US priority now was reopening the critical waterway.
Ongoing Risk
The US said offensive operations against Iran are over as it shifts to protecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, but the targeting of another cargo vessel after a day of strikes signaled that the conflict is dragging on. Trump, however, has not ruled out resuming a bombing campaign if negotiations collapse or Iran breaks the current ceasefire.
Regional Implications
The U.S. warns that transiting the normal route could be "extremely hazardous" because of mines laid in the Strait of Hormuz by Iran.