Adedokun Waliyu 
Donald Trump has announced a pause in a US military operation aimed at escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, as part of efforts to reach a peace agreement with Iran.
The operation, known as “Project Freedom,” was launched to help vessels navigate the narrow and critical waterway after rising tensions in the region. However, Trump said the initiative would be temporarily halted following requests from mediators, including Pakistan, amid signs of progress in negotiations with Tehran.
According to Trump, both sides have agreed to pause the operation while discussions continue toward a “complete and final agreement,” although a blockade on Iran’s ports remains in place as leverage.
The United States had earlier reported clashes in the region, including the sinking of several Iranian vessels and attacks on civilian ships. These incidents heightened tensions around the Strait, a vital route for global oil shipments.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the country has concluded its main offensive campaign against Iran, referred to as “Operation Epic Fury.” He described current actions in the region as defensive, aimed at protecting shipping routes rather than escalating conflict.
The conflict began after joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran earlier in the year, targeting military and economic sites. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks across the region.
Although a ceasefire was declared in April, tensions have persisted, and negotiations have faced delays. Despite this, US officials say their objectives have largely been achieved, while maintaining that a diplomatic resolution remains the preferred outcome.
