Trump Launches 'Project Freedom' for Hormuz Ships

The crisis began with joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026. In response, Tehran closed the strait to most foreign shipping and demanded that ships not linked to Washington or Israel pay a toll. On April 13, Trump imposed a counter-blockade of Iranian ports. The standoff has trapped more than 850 vessels and roughly 20,000 sailors in the Persian Gulf, and the U.K. Royal Navy reports traffic through the strait has dropped over 90 percent. On Friday, Iran delivered a 14-point peace proposal through Pakistani mediators that focused on reopening the strait but reportedly avoided the question of Iran's nuclear program.

The disruption pushed Brent crude oil briefly above $126 a barrel last week, while U.S. average gasoline prices climbed to $4.39 a gallon, according to AAA (the American Automobile Association). Trump warned any interference with Project Freedom would be 'dealt with forcefully,' while Iranian commanders promised 'painful retaliation' if new U.S. strikes occur. With Trump's planned trip to China on May 14 approaching, the operation's success could shape the next phase of negotiations and the global energy outlook.