United States President Donald Trump announced pausing U.S. military operations to move stranded ships out of the Strait of Hormuz, citing renewed momentum in negotiations with Iran.
The pause applies to Project Freedom, a U.S. initiative created to escort tankers trapped in the Gulf after the strait was shut down by the conflict. The closure has fueled a broader energy crisis and left commercial shipping stuck in a key global corridor.
Trump said the decision came at the request of Pakistan and other countries, pointing to “great progress” made toward a complete agreement with Iran.
“We have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom … will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalized and signed,” Trump wrote on social media.
Following Trump’s post, U.S. crude oil futures dropped by $2.30, falling below $100 per barrel.
Earlier Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the operation was defensive and that Iran could not be allowed to control traffic through the waterway. The U.S. military said Monday it had destroyed several Iranian small boats, cruise missiles and drones.
Rubio said Washington had achieved its objectives in the campaign launched alongside Israel on Feb. 28.
“Operation Epic Fury is concluded,” Rubio said.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said American forces had secured a passage through the strait. He added that the four-week-old truce with Iran remained in effect.
The UAE said its air defenses were once again responding to missile and drone attacks from Iran. Iran denied the accusation. The UAE described the attacks as a serious escalation and said it reserved its “full and legitimate right” to respond.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing, with Pakistan mediating as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi later arrived in Beijing for talks.
