Trump launches ‘Project Freedom’ to free trapped ships in Hormuz | US | News

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will begin escorting ships leaving the Strait of Hormuz as of Monday, as the war against Iran continues. He announced that the effort would be called ‘The Freedom Project’.

The move comes after countries around the world asked Washington for help freeing ships stuck in the key shipping lane, most of which are not involved in the conflict. Mr. Trump said in a statement that the ships were “neutral and innocent bystanders” caught in a crisis in which they “had absolutely nothing to do with.” Describing the mission as a humanitarian effort, he said the United States would guide the ships safely through the restricted waterway so they could “continue their work.” The Strait of Hormuz has become a major flashpoint in ongoing tensions involving Iran, with attacks, blockades and threats severely disrupting global shipping routes.

The US leader said he had instructed officials to reassure those affected that the US would do everything possible to ensure the ships and their crews exited the Strait safely.

In any case, the ships will not return until the area is deemed safe for navigation again, he said.

He added: “The Freedom Project will launch on Monday morning Middle Eastern time. I am fully aware that my representatives have had very positive discussions with the Country of Iran and that these talks could lead to something very positive for everyone.”

“The ship movement aims only to free people, companies and Countries who have done absolutely nothing wrong; they are victims of circumstance.

“This is a Humanitarian gesture on behalf of the United States of America, Middle Eastern Countries and especially Iran.”

POTUS noted that many of the stranded ships are running short of food and vital supplies needed to keep large crews healthy.

He added that concerns about conditions on the ship had also increased as shortages began to emerge.

The president called the operation a “goodwill gesture” after months of intense fighting and suggested it could help ease tensions among those involved in the crisis.

But he warned that any attempt to disrupt humanitarian efforts would not be tolerated. Trump added that such interference “unfortunately needs to be dealt with forcefully.”