Trump’s Hormuz Shipping Plan: New Negotiation Tactic?

US President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will assist in freeing vessels reportedly stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, with the process set to begin on Monday. The move is being presented by the White House as part of a coordinated initiative involving maritime security and commercial shipping access in the strategically vital waterway.

According to Trump, the initiative—referred to as “Project Freedom”—was launched following requests from unspecified countries whose vessels are affected by disruptions in the strait. He described the ships as “neutral and innocent travellers” engaged in legitimate commercial activity.

In a post on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump stated that the United States had informed relevant states that it would provide navigational support to help their vessels exit restricted waters safely. He said the objective was to ensure that commercial operations could continue “smoothly and efficiently” in the region, framing the effort as beneficial to Iran, the broader Middle East, and the United States.

Trump also noted that several of the affected ships were experiencing shortages of essential supplies, including food and other provisions necessary for crew welfare. He warned that any obstruction of the operation would be met with what he described as an “unfortunate but firm response.”

However, the administration has not disclosed which countries requested assistance, nor has it provided operational details regarding how the mission will be conducted or whether coordination with Iran is planned.

The US Central Command confirmed that it would begin supporting commercial vessels seeking safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz from Monday. Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said the mission was important for regional security and the global economy, while also indicating that enforcement of maritime restrictions would continue.

Iranian officials have strongly objected to the announcement. Ebrahim Azizi, head of the Iranian parliament’s National Security Commission, warned that any US intervention would be considered a violation of the existing ceasefire arrangement. In a post on X, he dismissed Trump’s statement as misleading and asserted that operational realities in the Gulf could not be altered by political declarations.

A summary of the key positions is provided below:

The announcement comes amid an already fragile ceasefire in place since 7 April. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain elevated due to reciprocal restrictions affecting maritime traffic, contributing to increased global oil prices and economic pressure.

US fuel prices have risen significantly, with average petrol costs reaching $4.44 per gallon compared to below $3 before the escalation. Analysts note that energy costs have contributed to domestic inflationary pressure.

While Trump has indicated that diplomatic channels with Iran remain open, no formal agreement or coordination mechanism has been disclosed at this stage.