Trump: U.S. Launch of Freedom of Navigation Operation in the Strait of Hormuz to Begin Monday Morning (Middle East Time)
U.S. President Trump stated on social media that countries around the world – the vast majority of which have not been involved in the current open, intense, and well-known Middle East conflict – have asked the U.S. for assistance in rescuing their ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. These countries were originally unrelated to the matter, merely neutral and innocent bystanders.
For the benefit of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, Trump stated he had informed these countries that the U.S. would guide their ships safely out of the restricted waterway, allowing them to conduct shipping business smoothly and normally. Trump reiterated that the regions to which these ships belong are completely unrelated to the current situation unfolding in the Middle East.
He has instructed U.S. representatives to inform relevant countries that the U.S. will do its utmost to escort ships and crew safely out of the Strait of Hormuz. All relevant countries have indicated that ships will not return until navigation safety is restored and the situation is completely stabilized in the strait.
He announced that this operation, called “Freedom Action,” will officially begin Monday morning (Middle East time).
Trump stated that U.S. representatives are engaged in very active communication and dialogue with Iran, and these consultations are expected to lead to a very constructive and positive outcome for all parties. The initial purpose of the ship evacuation operation is simply to rescue completely innocent people, businesses, and related countries – those who are victims of the situation. This is a humanitarian gesture by the United States, Middle Eastern countries, and especially by Iran. Many of the ships are running low on food and supplies necessary for the health and hygiene of the crew.
Trump said this move could greatly demonstrate goodwill from all parties and break the deadlock of intense confrontation over the past few months. He threatened that if anyone obstructs this humanitarian operation in any way, the U.S. will have to respond with force.