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US suspends Strait of Hormuz escort operation
President Donald Trump announced a temporary halt to Project Freedom, the US-led effort to guide stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress toward an agreement with Iran.
Terms of the pause
Trump stated the suspension resulted from a "mutual agreement" and followed a request from Pakistan, which has mediated between Washington and Tehran. The US naval blockade of Iranian ports remains active, however.
Iranian state media framed the decision as a retreat by the US after failing to reopen the critical shipping lane. The operation had launched days earlier to restore oil flows and stabilize global markets.
Mixed signals from US officials
Trump's announcement contrasted with earlier statements from administration figures. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Operation Epic Fury, the joint US-Israeli air campaign against Iran, concluded after meeting its objectives. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine both pledged to secure freedom of navigation in the Gulf.
"We would prefer the path of peace. What the president would prefer is a deal."
Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State
Ceasefire tensions persist
Despite the pause, violence continued in the region. The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported a cargo vessel struck by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz late Tuesday. The UAE claimed its air defenses intercepted Iranian missiles and drones for a second consecutive day, while Iran denied involvement.
Earlier, Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf accused the US and its allies of violating the ceasefire and jeopardizing shipping security. "Their evil acts will fail," he said.
Uncertain path forward
Analysts question whether the pause will ease tensions or embolden Iran. If Iranian interference disrupts shipping during the hiatus, Trump may struggle to claim success. Conversely, the freeze could encourage Tehran to return to negotiations.
Rubio suggested Iran had not yet chosen diplomacy, warning that continued defiance could lead to further consequences. Hegseth and Caine maintained the ceasefire held but remained vigilant.
"You'll find out because I'll let you know."
Donald Trump, on what would breach the ceasefire
Broader diplomatic efforts
Trump indicated he would discuss reopening the strait with Japanese officials and Chinese President Xi Jinping during an upcoming visit. The administration has sought to avoid escalating the conflict amid domestic opposition and market volatility.
