Two American-flagged vessels pass through Strait of Hormuz under Trump's 'Project Freedom'

Two American-flagged merchant vessels have successfully travelled through the Strait of Hormuz under the protection of the United States military, according to United States Central Command.

In a statement posted on X, the military said US Navy guided-missile destroyers were operating in the Arabian Gulf as part of “Project Freedom,” a new operation aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the region.

“U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers are currently operating in the Arabian Gulf after transiting the Strait of Hormuz in support of Project Freedom. American forces are actively assisting efforts to restore transit for commercial shipping. As a first step, 2 U.S.-flagged merchant vessels have successfully transited through the Strait of Hormuz and are safely headed on their journey.,” Central Command said.

The successful passage came one day after US President Donald Trump announced the US would begin escorting ships through the strategic waterway amid escalating tensions with Iran.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important shipping routes, carrying a major share of global oil and gas exports.

Concerns over regional instability and attacks on vessels have pushed energy prices higher in recent months.

Iran has attempted to tighten control over maritime traffic in the area as negotiations with Washington continue.