WASHINGTON DC: U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a temporary pause in the American operation escorting stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz, while confirming that the broader blockade of Iranian ports will remain in place.

In a social media statement, Trump said the suspension would last “for a short period of time” to assess whether a potential peace agreement with Iran could be finalized. The move appears to signal a tentative diplomatic opening after weeks of heightened tensions in the region.

The U.S. operation, dubbed Project Freedom, had aimed to assist vessels trapped amid the conflict. According to estimates by the United Nations, around 2,000 ships and 20,000 seafarers were stranded in the vital shipping corridor, one of the world’s busiest transit routes.

Iranian state media, however, portrayed the pause as a strategic victory, claiming Trump had “retreated” and accusing Washington of attempting to mask the failure of its military operation.

Adding to the mixed signals, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Tuesday that the “offensive stage” of the conflict with Iran is now over, asserting that Washington had achieved its primary objectives.

Despite these developments, uncertainty remains over the next phase. U.S. officials appear to be framing the pause as a goodwill gesture aimed at drawing Tehran back to negotiations, though no formal talks have been confirmed.

The evolving situation leaves global shipping and energy markets watching closely, as any lasting agreement—or renewed escalation—could significantly impact stability in the Gulf region.