Trump Backtracks, Mocked By Media

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President Donald Trump revealed Tuesday evening that the United States will temporarily pause its maritime operation known as “Project Freedom,” following requests from Pakistan and several other nations. However, he made it clear that the U.S. Navy’s blockade in the Strait of Hormuz will remain fully active during this period.

In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump pointed to recent military gains and ongoing diplomatic progress with Iran as key reasons behind the decision. He explained that the pause is intended to give negotiations a chance to move toward a final agreement, while still maintaining a strong U.S. presence in the region.

The decision comes after a tense start to the week, during which the U.S. launched the initiative to escort commercial vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The effort followed weeks of disruption caused by Iranian activity that had significantly slowed global shipping traffic. During that time, Iranian forces reportedly launched drones and missiles targeting U.S. military assets, prompting a swift American response that included the destruction of several Iranian boats.

Earlier in the day, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the current ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran as fragile but holding. He emphasized that “Project Freedom” was always intended as a short-term defensive measure designed to restore safe passage for commercial shipping in one of the world’s most critical waterways.

Hegseth also clarified that the mission is separate from “Operation Epic Fury,” which Secretary of State Marco Rubio later confirmed has officially concluded. Rubio took a firm stance on Iran’s leadership, warning against escalating tensions and stressing that the U.S. would respond decisively if provoked.

According to officials, the operation has involved significant military resources, including U.S. Navy destroyers and a large deployment of personnel across the Central Command region. Two American commercial vessels, escorted by U.S. warships, have already successfully navigated the strait, demonstrating the effectiveness of the mission so far.

Military leaders say the situation remains complex. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, noted that more than 1,500 vessels and over 22,000 mariners are still waiting inside the Persian Gulf due to recent disruptions. To address ongoing risks, U.S. forces have established a reinforced security zone along the southern side of the strait, backed by air, land, and naval support to deter further threats.

While the pause in “Project Freedom” signals a potential opening for diplomacy, U.S. officials continue to stress that security measures will remain in place to protect global shipping and prevent further escalation in the region.