Trump pauses “Project Freedom” in Strait of Hormuz just 50 hours after launch

US President Donald Trump has suspended a military operation called “Project Freedom” in the Strait of Hormuz only about 50 hours after announcing it.
The mission was launched to secure safe passage for commercial shipping through the strategically vital waterway, after rising tensions with Iran, which had been accused of threatening vessels in the area.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, carrying around 20% of global oil and gas flows, and disruptions there quickly impact global energy prices and shipping security.
According to reports, the US operation initially involved naval and air assets aimed at escorting or protecting merchant ships. However, within two days, Trump announced a pause, saying there had been “significant progress” in negotiations with Iran toward a possible agreement.
The sudden halt raised questions about the coordination and effectiveness of the initiative, especially as maritime tensions in the region continued and some shipping companies reportedly remained hesitant to resume normal transit due to security concerns.