President Donald Trump has initiated "Project Freedom," a military operation aimed at rescuing commercial vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions with Iran. The mission, announced on May 4, 2026, comes after several ships were reported trapped or detained in the strategic waterway, which handles about 20% of the world's oil transit.
Pentagon officials stated that the operation involves naval assets from the U.S. Fifth Fleet, including destroyers and support vessels, to ensure safe passage for the stranded ships. The move is a direct response to Iran's alleged interference with maritime traffic in the region.
"This is about protecting global trade and ensuring freedom of navigation," Trump said in a televised address. "We will not allow any nation to hold the world's energy supply hostage."
The announcement sent international oil prices fluctuating, as traders worried about potential disruptions to crude supply. Iran has not officially commented, but state media described Project Freedom as a "provocative act" that could escalate the conflict.
Meanwhile, the trapped vessels include tankers from several nations, and crews are reported to be safe but running low on supplies. The U.S. aims to complete the rescue within 72 hours, with allied support from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.