Trump Plans to Help Trapped Ships
On May 3, U.S. President Donald Trump announced 'Project Freedom.' The plan will help cargo ships leave the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow sea passage that carries one-fifth of the world's oil. Trump said the U.S. will 'guide' trapped ships out starting Monday because crews are running low on food. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) will send warships, over 100 aircraft, drones, and 15,000 soldiers. However, an official told reporters the Navy will not really escort ships, only direct traffic.
The crisis began on February 28, 2026, after the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran. Iran closed the strait to most foreign ships and demanded a toll. Trump then blocked Iranian ports. More than 850 ships and about 20,000 sailors are now stuck in the Persian Gulf. Traffic through the strait has fallen over 90 percent. On Friday, Iran sent a peace proposal through Pakistan to reopen the strait, but it did not discuss nuclear weapons.
The crisis pushed oil prices up. Brent crude went above $126a barrel last week. U.S. gasoline prices reached $4.39a gallon. Trump warned that any interference would be 'dealt with forcefully.' Iranian commanders said they will hit back hard if the U.S. attacks again. Trump plans to visit China on May 14, and Project Freedom may shape future talks and energy prices.