The United States on Monday launched an effort to “guide” stranded ships from nations not involved in the Middle East conflict out of the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran maintains its grip.
This comes a day after President Donald Trump announced a new maritime operation called “Project Freedom” on his Truth social platform.
What did Trump say about the Strait of Hormuz?
The US President gave some information about the operation.
He said it was a “humanitarian” gesture to the many ships trapped in the blockade and their crews, who may lack food and other vital supplies.
Trump said, “We will do our best to get their ships and crews out of the strait safely. In all cases, he said they will not return until the area is safe for navigation.”
It was not immediately clear which countries the US operation would assist.
Shortly after Trump’s statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it would support the mission with 15,000 military personnel, more than 100 land- and sea-based aircraft, as well as warships and drones.
“Our support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy as we also maintain a naval blockade,” CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said in a statement.
How did Iran react?
Iran immediately condemned the move as a violation of the ceasefire.
“Any US interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire,” Ebrahim Azizi, head of the National Security Commission in Iran’s parliament, said in a social media statement.
Azizi further said that the vital waterway “will not be managed by Trump’s delusional posts!”
Iran’s blockade of the strait following the war initiated by the US and Israel on February 28 has roiled global markets, disrupting major flows of oil, gas and fertiliser.
According to maritime intelligence firm AXSMarine, as of April 29, more than 900 commercial vessels were located in the Persian Gulf.
According to the International Maritime Organization, about 20,000 sailors have been unable to cross the strait during the conflict.