The Strait of Hormuz crisis remains highly volatile, with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth insisting that the ceasefire between the United States and Iran is “not over,” despite renewed attacks in the strategic waterway.
Speaking amid escalating tensions, Hegseth stressed that US operations in the region are separate from the ceasefire arrangement, describing them as a temporary mission aimed at securing maritime traffic.
US launches “Project Freedom” in Gulf waters
As part of what Washington has called “Project Freedom,” the US military is reportedly assisting commercial vessels trapped in the Gulf and guiding them through the Strait of Hormuz crisis zone.
Hegseth said the initiative is designed to protect commercial shipping from Iranian actions and is “temporary in duration.” He also claimed that two US-flagged vessels have successfully transited the strait, arguing this demonstrates that maritime routes remain open.
Iran accused of targeting global shipping
The Strait of Hormuz crisis intensified after the US accused Iran of launching missiles and drones at both military and commercial vessels. Tehran, however, maintains that it holds control over the strategic waterway.
US officials further alleged that Iran has been “weaponising the global supply chain” and attempting to pressure the international economy through its actions in the region.
Washington says ceasefire still holds
Despite the escalation, Hegseth reiterated that the ceasefire remains in place. However, he warned that Iran must avoid actions that could cross the threshold into renewed conflict.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, added that Iran has conducted multiple attacks on US forces since the ceasefire began, though he said they have so far remained below the level required to restart full hostilities.
Thousands of mariners stranded in Gulf
According to US military estimates, approximately 22,500 mariners aboard 1,550 commercial vessels remain trapped in the Gulf due to the Strait of Hormuz crisis, raising concerns over global supply chain disruption.
Strategic standoff continues
While Washington insists it holds the upper hand, Iran has warned that it is “just getting started,” signalling that the geopolitical standoff is far from resolved.
Analysts say the Strait of Hormuz crisis continues to pose significant risks to global energy security and maritime trade stability.
Also read: Two months into the Iran war, almost everybody is a loser
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