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On Sunday, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would step in to help release ships trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for the global oil trade, which has been obstructed amid ongoing tensions with Iran.
In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump noted, “Nations worldwide, most of which are not embroiled in the evident and violent conflict in the Middle East, have approached the United States for assistance. These ships, caught in the Strait of Hormuz, have no stake in the dispute—they are simply neutral and innocent bystanders!”
Trump further elaborated on the U.S.’s role, stating, “For the benefit of all parties involved—Iran, the Middle East, and the United States—we have assured these countries that we will guide their ships safely out of these restricted waterways, allowing them to resume their activities without hindrance.”
Dubbed “Project Freedom” by Trump, this initiative is set to commence on Monday morning, according to Middle Eastern time zones.
The Iranian military’s restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have stemmed from its conflict with the U.S. and Israel, leading to increased oil prices. Reports from AAA highlight that the average cost of gasoline in the U.S. has risen to approximately $4.45 per gallon, compared to about $3.17 a year ago.
The conflict against Iran just stretched into its second month, with polls showing widespread disapproval of the fighting among Americans. Trump’s disapproval rating recently reached a new high in a recent poll, with 62 percent of Americans disapproving of the president.
On Sunday, White House National Economic Council Director said that energy shocks from the conflict with Iran would affect airline profits for at least a quarter.
“Certainly, it’ll affect profits for the airlines for a quarter or so, but they’re very, very healthy right now,” Hassett said in the wake of Spirit Airlines’ decision to cease operations.