By Blessing Nweke

US President Donald Trump has announced a temporary pause in “Project Freedom,” the military operation aimed at guiding stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress toward a potential agreement with Iran.

Speaking on Tuesday evening, Trump said the halt would last a “short period of time” and was reached by “mutual agreement,” adding that the decision followed mediation efforts by Pakistan. Despite the pause, Washington will maintain its blockade on Iranian ports, keeping economic pressure on Tehran.

Iranian state media quickly framed the development as a strategic win, claiming the US had “retreated” after failing to reopen the vital shipping corridor. The waterway typically carries about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, making disruptions a major concern for global markets.

Earlier in the day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared that “Operation Epic Fury,” a joint US-Israeli campaign targeting Iranian infrastructure, had achieved its objectives. However, Trump’s decision to pause Project Freedom appeared to contradict earlier assurances from top officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine, who had emphasized maintaining maritime security.

Tensions remain high. A cargo vessel was reportedly struck by an unidentified projectile in the strait, while the UAE accused Iran of launching drones and missiles for a second consecutive day—claims Tehran denies.

Analysts say the pause could be a diplomatic gamble. While it may encourage Iran back to negotiations, continued threats to shipping could undermine US claims of success. Trump has insisted a deal remains possible, though uncertainty persists over what might trigger a renewed escalation.

For now, the fragile ceasefire holds, but the path forward remains unclear.