Donald Trump temporarily pauses 'Project Freedom' on Pakistan's request

Trump said the decision was taken at the request of Pakistan and several other countries, adding that ongoing negotiations with Iranian representatives have made “significant progress” toward a “complete and final agreement.”

“Based on requests from Pakistan and other countries, the tremendous military success during the campaign against Iran, and the substantial progress made toward a final agreement, we have mutually agreed to pause Project Freedom for a short period,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “The blockade will remain in full force while we assess whether the agreement can be finalized and signed.”

The operation had been launched on Monday.

Earlier, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described Project Freedom as a limited, defensive mission. “It is focused, temporary, and aimed at protecting innocent commercial shipping from Iranian aggression,” he told CNN.

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over rising tensions in the Gulf, warning that recent attacks could destabilize the region. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighted missile and drone strikes on the United Arab Emirates earlier this week, which the UAE has blamed on Iran.

The strikes reportedly injured three people and triggered a fire at an oil facility in Fujairah, underscoring the risks along the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping corridor.

“We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could escalate tensions,” Dujarric said, stressing that diplomacy remains the only viable path forward.

Meanwhile, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) continues to monitor the situation, voicing concern for seafarers and commercial vessels in the region.

IMO communications head Natasha Brown warned of growing risks as many ships remain stranded. “De-escalation, along with a long-term agreement ensuring freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers, is the only way forward,” she said.

The IMO has also prepared evacuation plans, though these can only be executed once adequate safety guarantees are in place. Its Marine Environment Protection Committee has adopted a resolution condemning attacks on commercial shipping, citing serious environmental risks from continued hostilities.