Trump Hits Pause on ‘Project Freedom’ as Iran Nuclear Deal Inches Closer

In a surprising diplomatic pivot, former President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that “Project Freedom”—the U.S.-led initiative to secure ship movement through the strategic Strait of Hormuz—will be temporarily paused. The announcement came via a Truth Social post, where Trump cited significant progress toward a potential final agreement with Iran. According to Trump, the pause was made “based on the request of Pakistan and other Countries,” as well as “the tremendous Military Success that we have had during the Campaign against the Country of Iran.” He further noted that while the blockade will remain “in full force and effect,” the temporary halt in Project Freedom will allow time to determine whether a “Complete and Final Agreement” can be finalized and signed with Iranian representatives.

The announcement, however, was met with immediate pushback from Tehran. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian took to X on Tuesday to deliver a pointed response, declaring that no foreign power can force Iran into submission. “We Muslims have already surrendered to the Almighty; no one else can make us surrender,” Pezeshkian wrote, following a call with Iraq’s Prime Minister Ali Falih Alzaidy. He urged the United States to remove military threats from the region, adding firmly that “followers of the Shiite school cannot be coerced by force.” As Washington and Tehran appear to step back from the brink, the coming days will determine whether this fragile diplomatic window leads to a landmark deal—or whether “Project Freedom” is merely on hold before a stormier sequel.