The U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday, May 5, he was halting the United States military operation to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz after just one day,

Washington confirmed that the active military engagement phase has been halted, while stating that diplomatic and strategic assessments are continuing.

Trump said the decision to pause the so-called “Freedom Project” was taken to determine whether a potential agreement could be finalized and signed. He added that despite the suspension of the escort mission, restrictions targeting Iran remain in effect at full capacity.

The US president also claimed that the operation had achieved “significant success” and that progress toward a broader agreement was underway, reportedly influenced by requests from several countries, including Pakistan.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the attack phase of operations had ended, stating that Washington has now shifted to a “defensive posture.” He warned that any targeting of US forces would be met with a “lethal response.”

Rubio further emphasized that all elements related to Iran’s nuclear capabilities must be addressed in ongoing negotiations, while noting that diplomatic channels remain open despite heightened tensions.

On the other side, Iran announced a new maritime control mechanism in the Strait of Hormuz. Under the new system, commercial vessels will reportedly be required to coordinate with Iranian authorities before transit and obtain prior authorization.

Iranian officials said the system is already in effect and warned of a “decisive response” against ships that fail to comply with designated routes. The Iranian parliament is also considering legislation that would impose a full ban on vessels linked to the Israeli government.

Tensions remain high in the region, with hundreds of commercial ships reportedly waiting in the strait as global energy markets closely monitor developments. (ILKHA)