President Trump has announced a temporary pause in the U.S. efforts to lead stranded vessels out of the Strait of Hormuz to focus on finalizing a deal with Iran. The decision, revealed in a social media post on Tuesday evening, is based on requests from Pakistan and other countries, significant military achievements against Iran, and progress made towards a comprehensive agreement with Iranian representatives. Despite the pause, the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports will continue.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated earlier that the U.S. has achieved its military objectives against Iran, emphasizing that the operation to ensure safe oil transit in the Strait of Hormuz is a separate defensive endeavor. This clarification aims to address criticisms from Congress members who suggest that Trump may have breached provisions of the War Powers Resolution.
The conflict with Iran began with airstrikes by Israel and the U.S. on February 28, with Trump informing Congress 48 hours later. The White House claimed on Friday that hostilities under Operation Epic Fury had ended, allowing the transition to Project Freedom. Rubio stressed that the U.S. is only taking defensive actions in its enforcement of the blockade on Iranian ports.
The United Arab Emirates reported ongoing attacks from Iranian missiles and drones, while Washington maintained a fragile ceasefire. Rubio urged Tehran to acknowledge the reality of the situation, mentioning ongoing diplomatic efforts by U.S. envoys. Concerns remain about Iran’s nuclear material, prompting the need for a diplomatic resolution.
Rubio declined to disclose specific progress but emphasized that the negotiation process is ongoing. He downplayed tensions between Trump and Pope Leo over Iran, ahead of a meeting with the Pope. Leo has refuted claims that he supports Iran having nuclear weapons, reiterating the Church’s stance against nuclear arms.
The U.S. remains committed to diplomatic solutions and defensive actions in the region, as efforts continue to address the complexities of the situation.