US President Donald Trump has announced a temporary pause in the “Freedom Project” operation aimed at ensuring the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, to allow room for the possible finalisation of a peace agreement with Iran, Reuters reported.
“We have mutually agreed that, while the blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom will be paused for a short period to see whether the agreement can be finalised and signed,” Trump said.
The “Freedom Project” operation was launched by the United States on May 4, with the aim of ensuring the security of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
US officials said the mission was defensive and temporary, adding American forces would not enter Iranian waters or airspace unless attacked.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington would only engage in military action in the event of a direct attack.
He added diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis were ongoing.
There was no immediate comment from Iran.
Iran and the United States have so far held one round of direct peace talks in Islamabad, but no final agreement has yet been reached.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most important energy corridors, with about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it.
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