US announced Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz – an initiative to escort merchant ships

The US Central Command has announced a new initiative in the Strait of Hormuz – Project Freedom. Starting on May 4, it will operate to ensure freedom of navigation of commercial vessels in the strait. President Donald Trump explained that the project is aimed at escorting ships during their passage through the strait. These are ships of countries not involved in the war with Iran.

In a post by the Central Command in X, it was reported that the mission approved by the president will support commercial vessels seeking to freely pass through the internationally important corridor. It was recalled that the Strait of Hormuz accounts for a quarter of the world’s seaborne oil trade and significant volumes of fuel products and fertilizers.

“Our support for this defensive mission is important for regional security and the global economy, as we also support a naval blockade,” said the commander of the Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper.

The command added that last week the State Department announced a new initiative in partnership with the Department of War. Project Freeedom will combine diplomatic action and military coordination.

The US military participation in the initiative will include guided missile destroyers, more than 100 land-based and sea-based aircraft and 15,000 troops.

In Iran, the American intervention will be regarded as a violation of the ceasefire. The corresponding statement was made by the head of the parliamentary National Security Committee, Abraham Azizi.

Tags: Hormuz, Iran, USA