Hormuz Strait Update: America started ‘Project Freedom’ to save ships, now Trump suddenly stopped the operation

Tension has increased significantly in the Strait of Hormuz. America had started a major military operation named ‘Project Freedom’ to provide safe passage to merchant ships. But now President Donald Trump has decided to stop this operation for some time. This step has been taken on the request of Pakistan and some other countries so that the ongoing agreement with Iran can be finalized.

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What is Project Freedom and what preparations did America make?

This operation was started on a specific instruction from the President. Its main objective was to save innocent merchant ships from Iranian attacks and to reopen the sea route. US Central Command (CENTCOM) had created a ‘security zone’ for this mission. America had deployed the following forces in this security cordon:

• About 15,000 American soldiers.
• Guided-missile destroyers and several frigates.
• More than 100 land and sea based aircraft.
• Many modern drones and unmanned platforms.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth clarified that this operation was only for defense and its purpose was not to enter Iranian territory. He also informed that two American ships successfully passed through this security.

How did Iran respond and what new rules did it impose?

In response to this action of America, Iran formed ‘Persian Gulf Strait Authority’ on 5 May 2026. Iran has now made strict rules under which:

• Every ship passing through Hormuz must obtain an official transit permit from Iran.
• Ships will have to use only corridors designated by Iran.
• Iran has warned of ‘stern action’ against ships that change course.

Iran’s military chief Ali Abdollah Aliabadi said that escorting ships by the US would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and such US forces would be attacked. Meanwhile, on May 5, there was also news of an unknown missile attack on a cargo ship.

What is the current status and latest updates?

On May 6, 2026, President Trump announced that ‘major progress’ has been made in negotiations with Iran, so ‘Project Freedom’ has been put on hold for the time being. However, the atmosphere is still tense. UAE reported that there have been missile and drone attacks from Iran for the second consecutive day.

Meanwhile, America and its Gulf allies have put forward a proposal in the United Nations (UN). This proposal states that if Iran does not stop attacks, continues to collect illegal tolls or does not provide information about sea mines, then strict sanctions will be imposed on it. Currently, ships have been advised to use the southern route through Oman’s territorial waters as the former route can be dangerous due to mines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why was Project Freedom suddenly stopped?

President Donald Trump blocked it because a deal with Iran is being negotiated at the request of Pakistan and other countries and considerable progress has been made.

What will ships have to do now according to Iran’s new rules?

Now all ships will have to obtain transit permit from Iran’s ‘Persian Gulf Strait Authority’ and will have to sail only on the routes decided by Iran.

Which route is currently safe for merchant ships?

The ships have been advised to use the southern route through Oman’s territorial waters, which fall within the US security zone.