Trump Suspends “Project Freedom” in Strait of Hormuz as US-Iran Nuclear Talks Stall

A fragile pause has been introduced into a critical US maritime security operation after President Donald Trump announced the temporary suspension of “Project Freedom,” the initiative designed to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The decision comes as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran struggle to break a deadlock over nuclear ambitions and control of one of the world’s most strategic waterways.

Trump confirmed the move in a post on Truth Social, stating that the programme would be paused briefly to allow negotiations with Iran to progress. He stressed that the US blockade in the region remains fully active and unchanged.

The Strait of Hormuz has been at the centre of escalating tensions since late February, when a wider conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran disrupted global maritime activity.

Since then, shipping through the waterway has faced severe restrictions, with Iran accused of obstructing passage through threats and attacks, while the United States has enforced a naval blockade targeting vessels linked to Iranian ports.

Trump said the pause was influenced by diplomatic requests from Pakistan and other countries, alongside what he described as major US military progress in operations against Iran. He also pointed to progress in ongoing discussions toward a final agreement.

“Project Freedom (The Movement of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalised and signed,” he said.

Before the crisis, the Strait of Hormuz handled about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making it one of the most important energy corridors in the world.

The United States launched the initiative earlier in the week to assist stranded vessels and stabilise maritime movement through the heavily contested route.

Despite the temporary suspension, negotiations remain fragile, with both sides still far apart on Iran’s nuclear programme and the governance of the strategic strait.

For now, global shipping markets remain on edge, watching closely for any breakthrough—or further escalation.