The US has temporarily suspended operations in the Strait of Hormuz due to negotiations with Iran
US President Donald Trump has announced a temporary suspension of operations under Operation Freedom, which aims to ensure the safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
He announced this on the social media platform Truth Social. According to the president, the decision was taken following requests from Pakistan and other countries, as well as against the backdrop of progress in negotiations between the US and Iran.
“In light of requests from Pakistan and other countries, as well as following significant military success during the campaign against Iran and substantial progress in negotiations towards a final agreement, we have agreed to temporarily suspend Operation Freedom,” wrote Donald Trump.
He also noted that the blockade would remain in place, and that the pause in the operation should allow time to finalise and sign a potential agreement with Iran.
It was previously reported that Operation Freedom involves escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz using US military vessels, aircraft and drones in response to the escalating situation in the region.
Against this backdrop, Senator Lindsey Graham stated that Iran had violated the ceasefire agreement and called for a tough response.
There were also reports of an air strike by Iran on the territory of the United Arab Emirates. According to local authorities, air defence systems detected four cruise missiles, three of which were intercepted over territorial waters, whilst another fell into the sea.
In Fujairah, a fire was reported at an oil refinery following a drone attack. Due to the threat of strikes, a missile alert was declared in the country, and Dubai International Airport temporarily suspended flight operations.
In addition, the US had previously announced the launch of a new military mission to ensure the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The US command stated that the operation was aimed at restoring freedom of navigation for commercial vessels in the region.
