Prime Minister Shehbaz expresses gratitude to Trump for suspending ‘Project Freedom’ in the Strait of Hormuz.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent his appreciation to US President Donald Trump for his bold leadership and prompt declaration over the temporary suspension of Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on social media platform X, he stated: “President Trump’s benevolent response to the request from Pakistan and other allied nations, especially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and my esteemed brother Crown Prince and Prime Minister H.R.H. Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will significantly contribute to promoting regional peace, stability, and reconciliation during this critical juncture.”

He stated that Pakistan is steadfastly dedicated to endorsing any initiatives that foster restraint and a peaceful resolution of issues via dialogue and diplomacy.

“We are optimistic that the existing momentum will culminate in a sustainable agreement that ensures enduring peace and stability for the region and beyond,” stated the article.

On Tuesday, May 5, Trump announced the cessation of the US military operation to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz after only one day, aiming to negotiate a resolution with Iran to conclude the Middle East conflict.

Trump’s initiative, termed “Project Freedom”, commenced on Monday to assist vessels in departing the Strait of Hormuz, the constricted passage to the Gulf where Iran has asserted control following attacks.

The US leader announced on Truth Social that he is now suspending it at the request of mediator Pakistan and other nations, stating that “significant progress has been achieved toward a comprehensive and conclusive agreement” with Tehran.Trump stated, “We have reached a mutual agreement that, although the blockade will continue to be fully enforced, Project Freedom will be temporarily suspended to assess the possibility of finalising and signing the Agreement.”

Washington is enforcing a blockade on Iran’s ports to compel Iran to negotiate a resolution to the conflict initiated by the US and Israel on February 28.

Tensions escalated about the Hormuz operation, with the US claiming it had sunk seven Iranian warships, while many civilian ships reportedly faced attacks attributed to Iran.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated earlier on Tuesday that the confrontations in the Strait of Hormuz were not included in the initial conflict.Rubio stated, “This is not an offensive operation; it is a defensive operation.” “This means that shooting will only occur if we are fired upon first.”

He stated that the United States had concluded its offensive operations against Iran, designated as “Operation Epic Fury”.