Tensions have sharply escalated after Iran warned it will attack US forces if they enter the strategic Strait of Hormuz, following an announcement by Donald Trump about a new military-backed operation. Trump said the United States will begin guiding stranded ships out of the waterway under an operation called “Project Freedom,” starting Monday morning (Middle East time). He described the move as a humanitarian effort to help thousands of sailors stuck at sea with limited supplies. The US military confirmed it will deploy significant resources, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 1

Tensions have sharply escalated after Iran warned it will attack US forces if they enter the strategic Strait of Hormuz, following an announcement by Donald Trump about a new military-backed operation. Trump said the United States will begin guiding stranded ships out of the waterway under an operation called “Project Freedom,” starting Monday morning (Middle East time). He described the move as a humanitarian effort to help thousands of sailors stuck at sea with limited supplies. The US military confirmed it will deploy significant resources, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft, and around 15,000 personnel to support the mission. Iran responded with a strong warning, saying it controls the strait and will target any foreign armed force attempting to enter without coordination. Officials in Tehran stressed that all shipping movements must be approved by Iranian authorities. Thousands of sailors still stranded According to the International Maritime Organization, about 20,000 seafarers and 2,000 ships remain stuck in the Gulf due to ongoing tensions. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, carrying a large share of global oil, gas, and other essential goods. Disruptions there have raised concerns about global supply chains and energy markets. Risk of further escalation The situation could complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts. While Trump mentioned ongoing talks with Iran that could lead to a positive outcome, Iranian officials warned that any US military presence in the strait could be seen as a violation of the ceasefire. In a separate development, Pakistan confirmed that 22 crew members from an Iranian ship seized by the US will be returned to Iran, describing it as a step toward easing tensions. What to watch With US forces preparing to act and Iran issuing clear warnings, the situation remains tense. Any confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz could have serious regional and global consequences.

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