In a major escalation of maritime tensions, the United States has unveiled a sweeping military operation “Project Freedom” to re-open the Strait of Hormuz, deploying 15,000 troops, destroyers and over 100 aircraft in what Donald Trump has called a humanitarian gesture – but Tehran has swiftly condemned as a violation of the ceasefire.
Washington confirms massive military deployment
The US military operation “Project Freedom,” announced on Sunday by US President Donald Trump, will involve 15,000 American service personnel, as well as destroyers, more than 100 land-based and sea-based aircraft, and other military equipment, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed.
“Our support for this defensive mission is critical to regional security and the global economy, while we also continue to maintain a naval blockade,” said Admiral Brad Cooper, the CENTCOM commander.
The operation to clear vessels from the Strait of Hormuz is due to begin on Sunday, Trump said. According to military officials, the aim is to “support merchant ships seeking unhindered transit through this vital artery of international trade.”
Tehran hits back at “delusional” claims
The US president described the move as a humanitarian gesture on the part of the US, Iran and other Middle Eastern nations. He explained that the decision to launch the operation followed appeals from third countries requesting help to free their ships from the blocked maritime corridor.
The US leader’s announcement did not go unnoticed by Iranian authorities. Ebrahim Azizi, head of the national security committee of Iran’s parliament (the Majlis), dismissed Trump’s statements as delusional. He stressed that Tehran would view any US attempt to interfere with shipping regulations through the waterway as a violation of the existing ceasefire between the parties.
Earlier, President Trump had announced that the operation would begin on May 4. According to him, the White House had received appeals from “countries around the world” asking for assistance in freeing their vessels, which had been left immobilised in the closed Strait of Hormuz.
