U.S. Launches Strait of Hormuz Escort Mission as Iran Reviews Ceasefire Terms

The U.S. military has initiated "Project Freedom," a large-scale maritime operation designed to guide stranded commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command's Joint Maritime Information Center has established an "enhanced security area" in Omani waters, advising cargo ships and tankers to avoid Iranian-controlled zones. The operation involves approximately 15,000 personnel, guided-missile destroyers, and over 100 aircraft intended to provide humanitarian aid and supplies to crews facing severe shortages. Simultaneously, the Iranian government is assessing a U.S. response to its 14-point war-ending proposal. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei emphasized that while Tehran seeks a resolution involving the cessation of hostilities, regional troop withdrawals, and the lifting of naval blockades within 30 days, nuclear negotiations remain strictly off the table. Iranian officials labeled recent U.S. administrative actions as "delirium" and warned that interference in the strait could be viewed as a ceasefire violation. Despite claims from Iranian sources suggesting a U.S. Navy vessel was struck on May 4, U.S. forces have officially denied these reports. President Trump has maintained a firm stance, warning of a forceful response to any Iranian interference with the maritime corridor. The situation remains volatile as global shipping continues to face disruptions and reported attacks in the Persian Gulf region.