WASHINGTON: Pakistan has once again stepped into the center of high-level diplomacy as US President Donald Trump announced the suspension of ‘Project Freedom’ in the Strait of Hormuz following Islamabad’s ongoing efforts to advance talks with Iran.
Trump said the US would temporarily suspend a region-wide naval operation launched a few days ago to protect shipping through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, while maintaining a blockade of Iran.
He said there was “significant progress” towards a final deal with Tehran.
Confirming the pause, Trump posted the following message on Truth Social:
Based on the request of Pakistan and other countries, the tremendous military success we have had in the campaign against the country of Iran, and, in addition, the fact that great progress has been made with representatives of Iran towards a full and final agreement, we have mutually agreed that, while the blockade remains in full force, the freedom and influence of the project (through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see if an agreement can be finalized and signed.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passageway through which about a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, has been a focus of growing tension after Iran effectively restricted shipping during the ongoing war. The United States responded by launching Project Freedom, deploying naval forces to guide stranded ships and confront Iran’s navy.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s role has been building behind the scenes for weeks. Islamabad has previously urged Washington to delay escalation and give diplomacy a chance. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directly appealed to Trump to extend the deadline and support the talks.
Pakistani officials have also offered suggestions for easing the blockade of Iran and facilitating talks.
So far, Pakistan has continued to reach out for mediation, while parallel talks with Iran have taken place on multiple channels.
The pause in Project Freedom is being seen as a confidence-building step that can be used to secure a deal without having to back down militarily.
US officials continue to claim that the main combat phase of the campaign against Iran has already achieved its objectives. Iran denies any damage so far.
