Donald Trump has mentioned “very positive” discussions with Iran and announced an operation starting Monday to free ships stuck in the Gulf for two months, prompting a warning from Tehran.
With a significant change in tone from the previous day, the US president, who initiated hostilities against Iran on February 28 with Israel, spoke on Sunday evening of “a humanitarian gesture” and “goodwill” towards sailors blocked by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and hailed “very positive” discussions with Tehran through Pakistan intermediaries.
Starting Monday morning local time, the US Navy will escort ships from countries “that have nothing to do with the conflict in the Middle East” through the Strait of Hormuz, Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social platform.
However, he warned that if this operation, named Project Freedom, was hindered by Iran, it “should unfortunately be dealt with by force.”
In a statement, the US Central Command for the Middle East clarified that the operation would involve missile-launching destroyers, over a hundred aircraft, and 15,000 soldiers.
This operation is not to Iran’s liking, as it considers it a violation of the ceasefire in effect since April 8.
“Any US intervention in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire,” warned Ebrahim Azizi, president of the Iranian parliament’s national security commission.
Context: The article discusses the recent developments between the US, Iran, and the operation to free ships stuck in the Gulf.
Fact Check: The article accurately reports statements from Donald Trump and Iranian officials regarding the situation.
