Donald Trump said he is pausing a new U.S. military effort to guide ships out of the Strait of Hormuz, just one day after launching the operation. Trump said the pause comes as talks with Iran show progress toward a possible agreement.
The mission, known as Project Freedom, aimed to help thousands of sailors stranded in the region after the waterway was effectively blocked. U.S. officials said nearly 23,000 sailors from dozens of countries have been stuck, facing serious risks. Marco Rubio said the plan was meant to protect lives and ensure safe passage.
Trump’s decision marks a sudden shift. Earlier, the administration described the operation as urgent, with military forces ready to escort ships through the area. But the latest move signals a focus on diplomacy, as both sides explore a possible deal that could ease tensions and reopen the route.
Markets reacted positively to the news, with rising hopes that a deal could reduce conflict in the region. Still, the situation remains uncertain, as recent attacks and tensions highlight how fragile the path to an agreement could be.
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