Trump pauses Hormuz escort operation amid Iran talks

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on May 5 that he is halting "Project Freedom," a military operation launched just one day earlier to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, in response to a request from mediator Pakistan and other countries seeking progress toward a final agreement with Iran to end the ongoing Middle East war. While the operation is being paused, Trump emphasized that the blockade of Iran's ports will remain in full force to maintain pressure on Tehran to negotiate. The move comes amid fragile ceasefire efforts that Trump declared on April 8 and has since extended multiple times, despite negotiations with Iran appearing to be at a standstill. The decision follows heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has seized control in response to being attacked. The U.S. military has reported sinking seven Iranian boats, and several civilian vessels have come under attack allegedly from Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the clashes in the Strait of Hormuz represent a separate defensive operation distinct from the original offensive campaign, which was conducted under "Operation Epic Fury." Rubio stated that the offensive operations against Iran have been completed and that the U.S. has achieved its war objectives. "These guys are facing, they are facing real, catastrophic destruction to their economy," Rubio told reporters, though he emphasized that Trump still prefers a negotiated settlement over continued military action. The broader conflict began on February 28 when Israel and the United States launched coordinated attacks on Iran, targeting top leaders and major military and economic infrastructure. The strikes did not succeed in toppling the Islamic republic, which has since responded with sustained missile and drone attacks across the region. Despite declaring a ceasefire, the U.S. has maintained its naval blockade of Iranian ports, continuing to exert economic pressure while pursuing diplomatic negotiations through mediators. Trump indicated that the pause in Project Freedom is temporary, contingent on whether a comprehensive agreement with Iran can be finalized and signed.