President Donald Trump said the United States will temporarily pause “Project Freedom,” an initiative aimed at ensuring the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, as diplomatic efforts with Iran show progress.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed requests from Pakistan and other countries and came amid what he described as “tremendous military success” during the US campaign against Iran.
“Based on the request of Pakistan and other Countries, and the tremendous Military Success that we have had, we have mutually agreed to pause the operation," Trump wrote.
He added that negotiations with Iranian representatives have moved closer to a “Complete and Final Agreement,” saying “Great Progress has been made toward” a deal. Despite the pause in maritime operations, Trump made it clear that pressure on Iran would continue. “While the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom will be paused for a short period of time,” he said.
According to Trump, the temporary halt is aimed at testing the viability of diplomacy. The move is “to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalised and signed,” he said.
US concludes Operation Epic FuryUS Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that 'Operation Epic Fury,' a joint US-Israeli military offensive launched on February 28, had achieved its primary objectives and was now concluded. However, he stopped short of declaring an end to the broader conflict, leaving the door open for renewed escalation. Rubio stressed that while active combat operations have ceased, the US is continuing to exert strategic pressure in the region. “We would prefer the path of peace,” he said, adding that Washington is not seeking further confrontation but remains prepared if tensions escalate again, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program or disruptions in maritime routes. |
