Amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump said the United States would begin a new initiative to help guide commercial vessels through the strategically vital waterway, even as fresh attacks continued to hinder maritime traffic. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said multiple countries had asked Washington for assistance in moving ships that were "locked up in the Strait of Hormuz," describing them as "neutral and innocent bystanders."
"For the good of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways," he wrote, adding that the effort — which he called "Project Freedom" — would begin on Monday morning.
Trump said the initiative was intended as a "Humanitarian gesture," noting that some vessels were running low on food and other essential supplies. He also warned that any interference with the effort "will, unfortunately, have to be dealt with forcefully."
The announcement came hours after a cargo vessel reportedbeing attackednear the strait, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, a British military monitoring body. The agency said multiple small craft targeted the northbound ship off Sirik, Iran, east of the strait. All crew members were reported safe. No group immediately claimed responsibility.
The incident marked at least two dozen reported attacks in and around the strait since the onset of the current conflict involving Iran, and was the first such report since April 22, when another cargo vessel came under fire. The threat level in the area remains classified as critical.
Iranian officials have asserted control over the waterway, indicating that ships not affiliated with the United States or Israel could pass if they paid a toll. Analysts say Tehran has effectively constrained access by attacking and threatening vessels.
Vehicles drive past a billboard with graphic showing Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf to global shipping lanes, is one of the world's most critical oil transit routes. Iranian patrol boats — often small, fast and difficult to detect — have been used in previous attacks on shipping in the area.
Last month, Trump ordered the US military to "shoot and kill" small Iranian boats deploying mines in the strait, escalating already fraught tensions.
Even as the security situation deteriorated, Trump suggested that diplomatic discussions with Iran were ongoing. "I am fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all," he said in his post.
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