Trump Launches 'Project Freedom' Hormuz Escort Operations

President Trump initiated 'Project Freedom' on May 4, deploying Navy destroyers, approximately 100 aircraft, and 15,000 troops to escort vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Iran immediately condemned the operations as ceasefire violations and launched ballistic missiles and drones, with UAE and Oman conducting interceptions. As the U.S.-Iran conflict entered its 65th day, the critical passage through which approximately 20% of global crude oil supplies transit has once again become a flashpoint.