U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday (May 5) announced a temporary pause in “Project Freedom,” the American operation aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, citing ongoing efforts to finalize an agreement with Iran.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the decision was made following requests from key mediators, including Pakistan, and to allow space for diplomatic progress.
“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 finalised and signed,” he stated.
Despite the pause, Trump confirmed that the blockade on Iranian ports would continue. He also pointed to what he described as “tremendous military success” and progress toward a potential agreement as contributing factors behind the move.
The launch of Project Freedom on Monday had sharply escalated tensions between Washington and Tehran, with both sides reporting exchanges of fire in the strategic waterway.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington has concluded its offensive operations for now, but warned that the U.S. is prepared to respond forcefully to any further threats to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, U.S. military officials emphasized that forces remain on standby. General Dan Caine noted that Central Command is ready to resume major combat operations if ordered, warning that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.
Tensions remain high, with Iran’s chief negotiator indicating that Tehran’s response could intensify, while the Revolutionary Guards navy warned of a “firm response” to any deviation from designated shipping routes.
The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting missiles and drones allegedly launched by Iran for a second consecutive day, though Tehran has strongly denied carrying out such attacks.
Recent clashes have marked the most serious escalation since a month-long truce, with Iran reportedly launching missiles and drones at U.S. forces, and Washington responding with strikes on Iranian vessels it accused of threatening commercial shipping.
Despite the volatility, Trump urged Iran to reach an agreement, stating he preferred a diplomatic resolution. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has indicated openness to dialogue, while rejecting U.S. demands described as “maximum pressure.”