President of the United States (US) Donald Trump has announced a temporary halt to “Project Freedom,” a military operation tasked with escorting commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The decision follows claims of advancement toward a final agreement with Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz has remained largely inaccessible since the start of the conflict, stalling approximately 20 percent of global oil supplies and triggering an international energy crisis.

Trump detailed the pause on Truth Social, noting that the decision was influenced by requests from Pakistan and other nations. He cited military successes and progress toward a “Complete and Final Agreement” with Iranian representatives.

“We have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalized and signed,” Trump stated.

Following the announcement, US crude oil futures dropped by $2.30, falling below the $100 per barrel mark.

On Tuesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the end of the broader military campaign launched on February 28 in coordination with Israel.

“Operation Epic Fury is concluded,” Rubio told reporters at the White House. He characterized current efforts as defensive, stating, “There’s no shooting unless we’re shot at first”.

Rubio maintained that the US had achieved its primary objectives, pointing to the “catastrophic destruction” of the Iranian economy as a result of the campaign. Despite the military pressure, the administration stated a preference for a negotiated settlement.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth noted that a path through the waterway had been secured, with hundreds of commercial ships waiting for transit. He confirmed that the four-week-old truce remains in place, though the military is monitoring the situation.

Tehran has not yet officially responded to the pause. Previously, the Revolutionary Guards warned of a “firm response” if vessels deviated from sanctioned routes, while Iran’s chief negotiator suggested their response to the trade route conflict was only beginning.