As the US-Israel conflict with Iran entered its 68th day on Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced a temporary halt to a US military operation in the Strait of Hormuz to allow room for ongoing negotiations.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the move followed requests from Pakistan and other countries, and pointed to progress toward what he described as a “complete and final agreement” with Iranian officials.
He said “Project Freedom” — involving the movement of ships through the strategic waterway — would be paused briefly to assess whether a deal could be finalised. However, he added that the blockade on Iran would remain in place, signalling continued pressure alongside diplomatic efforts.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz continuing to be a crucial route for global trade and energy shipments.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said 10 civilian sailors had died during the ongoing conflict in the Strait, describing them as isolated and vulnerable, though he did not provide further details.
Rubio also confirmed that the US has ended its military campaign against Iran under “Operation Epic Fury”, stating that Washington had achieved its objectives and would now prioritise diplomacy, despite concerns over Iran’s uranium enrichment.
In a parallel development, Iraq’s Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi offered to mediate between Tehran and Washington. He said the proposal was discussed with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasising Baghdad’s support for dialogue.
Rubio also questioned Iran’s stance on nuclear weapons, citing its centrifuge development and enrichment activities as inconsistent with its claims of peaceful intent.
Separately, a cargo vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to UK maritime authorities, though the extent of the damage remains unclear.
Tensions have also spilt into the Israel-Lebanon border, where Hezbollah fired rockets at Israeli forces. The Israeli military said several aerial threats were intercepted before entering its airspace.
At the United Nations, the US has proposed a Security Council resolution aimed at safeguarding navigation in the Strait. Rubio accused Iran of threatening global economic stability through its actions in the region.
Amid these developments, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Beijing for talks, ahead of Trump’s scheduled visit to China later this month.
