CENTCOM launches ‘Project Freedom’ to secure shipping in Strait of Hormuz

US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Sunday that it will launch “Project Freedom” to support merchant vessels seeking to transit the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to restore freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway. “U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces will begin supporting Project Freedom, May 4, to restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz,” CENTCOM posted on X. The mission will include guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 land- and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said: “Our support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy as we also maintain the naval blockade.”

Operational details

The Axios news site reported, however, that the initiative may not involve direct US Navy escorts for commercial ships. One official said US Navy vessels would be “in the vicinity” if needed to prevent Iranian military action. The Navy plans to provide commercial ships with guidance on safest maritime routes, particularly those not mined by Iranian forces. President Trump stated on Truth Social that the US would begin escorting neutral foreign vessels out of the strait starting Monday morning, describing the effort as a “humanitarian gesture” toward countries caught in a conflict they have no part in. He noted that many stranded ships were running low on food and essentials.

Context of the moves

The move comes as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have caused sharp price gains in energy, fertilizer, and industrial commodities. The US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, prompting Iranian retaliation and the closure of the strait. A Pakistan-mediated ceasefire was announced on April 8, followed by talks in Islamabad, but no lasting agreement was reached.