US to Escort Ships Through Strait of Hormuz
The U.S. will guide stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz, deploying significant military assets amid ongoing U.S.-Iran diplomatic exchanges.
Atlas Newsdesk ·
U.S. Initiates Strait of Hormuz Navigation Operation The United States announced on Monday that it will commence an operation to guide stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane. This initiative, termed "Project Freedom" by former President Donald Trump, aims to facilitate the safe passage of ships that have been unable to navigate the strait since the onset of conflict in February.
The operation involves approximately 15,000 U.S. personnel, guided-missile destroyers, and over 100 aircraft, according to U.S.
Central Command.
The decision follows severe restrictions on traffic through the waterway imposed by Iran and a U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports. An estimated 20,000 sailors have been stranded in the Gulf, raising concerns about their welfare and dwindling supplies. The Strait of Hormuz typically handles about 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) traffic, and the ongoing conflict has contributed to increased global energy prices.
This development occurs amidst diplomatic exchanges between the U.S. and Iran.
Iran's state-linked media reported receiving a U.S. response to its latest peace proposal, delivered via Pakistan, which is currently under review.
However, Mr. Trump reportedly indicated to Israel's Kan News that the Iranian proposal was unacceptable.
Iran's 14-point peace plan includes demands for a U.S. withdrawal from near its borders, an end to the naval blockade, and a cessation of hostilities, including Israel's offensive in Lebanon.