Trump Announces U.S. Navy Escort Operations in Strait of Hormuz Starting Monday

U.S. Navy to Escort Ships Through Strait of Hormuz Starting Monday

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the U.S. Navy will commence escort operations for foreign-flagged ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz beginning Monday. The move, codenamed "Project Freedom", marks a significant escalation in U.S. efforts to reopen the strategically vital waterway, which Iran has restricted since the early stages of the war.

Trump Warns Iran: Any Interference Will Be Met With Force

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump warned that if Iran attempts to disrupt the escort operations, the U.S. military will respond with force. He framed the initiative as a humanitarian effort to assist countries and vessels stranded in the strait due to logistical and supply shortages.

"The Ships movement is merely meant to free up people, companies, and Countries that have done absolutely nothing wrong — They are victims of circumstance. This is a Humanitarian gesture on behalf of the United States, Middle Eastern Countries but, in particular, the Country of Iran," Trump stated.

"We have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business," he added. "If, in any way, this Humanitarian process is interfered with, that interference will, unfortunately, have to be dealt with forcefully."

"Project Freedom" Aims to Reopen Critical Waterway

The Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for global oil shipments, has been a flashpoint in U.S.-Iran tensions. Iran has previously seized foreign vessels and restricted passage in response to sanctions and regional conflicts. Trump described the escort operations as a direct challenge to Tehran’s attempts to control the strait.

Diplomatic Efforts Continue Amid Rising Tensions

Trump also highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts, stating that U.S. representatives are engaged in "very positive discussions" with Iran. He suggested these talks "could lead to something very positive for all." On Sunday, the U.S. submitted another amended draft of a proposed agreement to end the war, responding to Iran’s latest proposal, according to sources.

Humanitarian Justification vs. Strategic Move

While Trump framed the operation as humanitarian—citing food, supply shortages, and health issues among stranded crews—analysts view it as a strategic maneuver to counter Iran’s influence in the region. The escort initiative could either de-escalate tensions by facilitating safe passage or provoke a military confrontation if Iran responds aggressively.

The U.S. has not disclosed which countries or ships will initially benefit from the escort program, but Trump emphasized that the operation is open to nations "that have done absolutely nothing wrong" and are victims of the current circumstances.