United States President Donald Trump announced that a new initiative called Project Freedom will begin Monday to help stranded ships safely leave the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions linked to the Iran war. He said the effort is intended to assist neutral and innocent countries whose vessels have been affected, adding that discussions with Iran could lead to a positive outcome.

The announcement follows a reported attack on a cargo ship near the strait, where multiple small craft approached the vessel. All crew members were reported safe. Iranian authorities denied an ആക്രമat attack, stating that a ship had been stopped for a document check. The region has seen at least two dozen maritime incidents since the conflict began, and the threat level remains critical.

Iran has asserted control over the strategic waterway, a vital route for global oil, natural gas, and fertilizer shipments, and has indicated that certain ships may pass if they pay a toll. The United States has warned shipping companies against making any such payments and continues a naval blockade that has turned back dozens of commercial vessels. Despite a fragile ceasefire, tensions remain high, and further military action has not been ruled out.