US President Donald Trump on Friday said the United States could restart its maritime security initiative "Project Freedom" in the Strait of Hormuz if negotiations with Iran fail, while also hinting at an expanded version of the operation called "Project Freedom plus".
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was quoted as saying by The Times of India, "We'll go a different route if everything doesn't get signed up, buttoned up."
"I think Project Freedom is good, but I think we have other ways of doing it also. We may go back to Project Freedom if things don't happen, but it'd be Project Freedom plus, meaning Project Freedom plus other things," he added.
Why Project Freedom was paused
The remarks came shortly after Trump announced on Truth Social that Project Freedom would be temporarily suspended, even though the naval blockade around Iranian ports would continue.
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According to Trump, the pause followed requests from Pakistan and several other countries involved in mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran.
In his statement, Trump linked the decision to what he described as military gains during operations involving Iran and progress toward a possible agreement.
"Based on the request of Pakistan and other Countries, the tremendous Military Success that we have had during the Campaign against the Country of Iran and, additionally, the fact that Great Progress has been made toward a Complete and Final Agreement with Representatives of Iran, we have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom (The Movement of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalised and signed," the post read.
What is Project Freedom?
Project Freedom was launched earlier this week by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) to support merchant ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.
According to CENTCOM, the operation involved guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft, unmanned platforms and nearly 15,000 service members.
Reports also suggested the initiative faced logistical challenges after Saudi Arabia reportedly declined permission for US aircraft linked to the mission to use Prince Sultan Airbase or fly through Saudi airspace.
Trump did not elaborate on what additional measures "Project Freedom plus" could involve if talks with Iran collapse.
