The United States has signalled a push to ease the shipping logjam in the Strait of Hormuz, with President Donald Trump saying Washington will help guide stranded vessels out of the Gulf, even as fragile diplomatic engagement with Iran continues.
Trump said the initiative, described as “Project Freedom”, would aim to secure safe passage for ships and crews caught in the disruption, calling it a humanitarian effort involving the US and regional partners, including Iran. He added that American representatives are in “very positive” discussions with Tehran.
Despite the announcement, there is little clarity on how the operation will be carried out. Reports citing US officials indicate the plan may not involve direct naval escorts, but rather coordinated movement of vessels through the congested waterway.
More than 850 ships remain stranded in the Gulf following restrictions imposed by Iran after the conflict escalated earlier this year.
Even as he struck an optimistic tone on diplomacy, Trump warned that any attempt to disrupt the effort would invite a “forceful” response.
Iran responded cautiously, with a senior official warning that any US intervention in the strait would be treated as a breach of the ceasefire. Tehran has said it is reviewing Washington’s response to its latest proposal.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key global energy artery, carrying about a fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies. Disruptions have already driven crude prices above $120 a barrel in recent sessions, heightening concerns over inflation and economic stability worldwide.
Iran has proposed a multi-point framework that includes reopening the strait, easing sanctions, and restarting nuclear negotiations. While both sides appear to be engaging, there is no clear indication of a breakthrough yet.
An estimated 20,000 sailors remain stuck aboard tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf, adding urgency to efforts to restore safe navigation.
At the same time, the risk of escalation persists. Reports suggest the US could consider further military action if talks stall, while Israeli officials have reiterated that any deal must address Iran’s uranium enrichment programme.
Although a ceasefire has been in place for weeks, the continued standoff over the Strait of Hormuz — combined with parallel economic blockades — underscores the fragile balance between diplomacy and confrontation, with significant implications for global trade and energy markets.
