Washington: The United States has temporarily suspended its latest military operation near the Strait of Hormuz after signs emerged that diplomatic talks with Iran may be moving in a positive direction. The decision comes after weeks of rising tensions in the Gulf region that had raised fears of a wider military conflict and disruptions to global oil supplies.
US President Donald Trump announced that the operation known as “Project Freedom” would be paused for a short period to allow negotiations and peace efforts to continue. The operation had been launched to protect commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after repeated security threats and attacks in the area.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important maritime routes because a large percentage of global oil exports pass through the narrow waterway every day. Any conflict in the region quickly affects international energy markets and creates concerns among governments and businesses around the world.
American officials said the operation had helped several commercial ships travel safely through the region under naval protection. However, the US administration now believes there may be an opportunity to reduce tensions through diplomacy instead of continued military action.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that “Operation Epic Fury,” which was described as the main offensive phase of the recent American military campaign against Iran, has officially ended. He said the United States had completed its immediate security objectives and would now focus on maintaining safe shipping routes and supporting stability in the Gulf.
Rubio also said Washington remains committed to ensuring that global trade and oil transportation through the Strait of Hormuz continue without disruption. He stressed that the US would closely monitor the situation and respond if commercial shipping came under threat again.
The announcement had an immediate effect on global markets. Oil prices, which had risen sharply during the recent tensions, showed signs of stabilising after Trump’s remarks about possible peace and renewed diplomatic contacts. International investors and shipping companies have been closely watching developments because even small incidents in the Strait of Hormuz can have major global economic consequences.
Despite the pause in military operations, officials and analysts warned that the situation remains fragile. Reports from international media suggest that isolated incidents and security concerns continue in parts of the Gulf region. There have also been accusations exchanged between Iran and some neighbouring countries regarding attacks on vessels and regional security activities.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the current ceasefire understanding between the United States and Iran was still holding, although tensions had not completely disappeared. He noted that the coming days would be critical in determining whether diplomatic efforts could succeed.
At the same time, several countries are now trying to support dialogue between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan is reported to be involved in mediation efforts, while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has travelled to China for discussions linked to the crisis and regional stability.
China’s involvement is being viewed as an important development because Beijing has strong economic and energy interests in the Gulf region. Analysts say many countries are eager to prevent another major conflict that could damage global trade and increase fuel prices worldwide.
The nuclear issue also remains a major point of disagreement between the two sides. The United States continues to insist that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons, while Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes only. Reports suggest Iran still possesses enriched uranium stockpiles that continue to worry Western governments.
Although the immediate danger of a wider war appears to have reduced for now, international observers say the situation can still change quickly. Governments, shipping companies, and oil markets are expected to remain cautious as diplomatic talks continue in the coming days.