Washington:
US President Donald Trump has announced that American naval forces will begin
escorting neutral foreign vessels out of the Strait of Hormuz starting Monday
morning Middle East time, describing the initiative dubbed "Project
Freedom" as a humanitarian effort to assist ships stranded amid ongoing
tensions.
Trump
said vessels from multiple countries had requested assistance after becoming
trapped, adding that the US Navy would use its "best efforts" to
guide ships and their crews safely out of the restricted passage. He noted that
some of the ships were running low on food and essential supplies, and said
escorted vessels would not return until navigation in the area is deemed safe.
Trump described the move as a goodwill gesture toward affected countries, including Iran, while warning that any interference with the operation would be met with a forceful response. He also said US officials are engaged in "very positive" discussions with Iran, expressing hope that talks could lead to broader progress.
