Donald Trump said “very positive discussions” are underway with Iran on ending the conflict, even as Washington prepares to launch a naval mission to escort commercial vessels through the blocked Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump indicated that diplomatic engagement could yield a breakthrough. “These discussions could lead to something very positive for all,” he said, referring to ongoing contacts between US representatives and Tehran.
The comments came after Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that Tehran had submitted a 14-point proposal aimed at ending the war. The plan was reportedly conveyed to Washington through Pakistani mediators, with the US issuing a response via the same channel.
‘Project Freedom’ to Begin
Despite the diplomatic momentum, Trump announced that US forces would begin escorting ships out of the Gulf under an initiative dubbed “Project Freedom,” starting Monday morning (Middle East time).
“Countries from all over the world” have requested assistance navigating the restricted waters, Trump said, describing the operation as a “humanitarian gesture” to aid vessels stranded amid the disruption. Many ships are reportedly running low on essential supplies for their crews.
The US military confirmed preparations for the मिशन, with United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stating it would deploy guided-missile destroyers, over 100 aircraft, unmanned systems, and around 15,000 personnel to support the effort. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper said the mission is “essential to regional security and the global economy,” even as the US maintains its naval blockade on Iranian ports.
Strategic Waterway Under Pressure
The Strait of Hormuz—through which a significant share of global oil and gas flows—has remained effectively blocked since the outbreak of hostilities. Iran’s control over the chokepoint has disrupted energy and fertilizer shipments worldwide, while the US counter-blockade has further escalated tensions.
The conflict began on February 28, when US and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran, reportedly killing the country’s supreme leader. Tehran retaliated with attacks on US military bases and Israeli targets across the region.
A ceasefire took effect on April 8, followed by a round of direct peace talks in Islamabad, but negotiations have so far stalled.
Shipping Backlog Builds
According to maritime intelligence firm AXSMarine, more than 900 commercial vessels remained in the Gulf as of April 29, down from over 1,100 at the start of the conflict—highlighting the scale of disruption facing global shipping.
With both diplomacy and military operations advancing in parallel, the coming days will be critical in determining whether tensions ease—or escalate further in one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.
