Trump says US to help ships exit Strait of Hormuz, cites positive Iran talks

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on May 4 that the United States will help guide ships out of the Strait of Hormuz after receiving requests from multiple countries to free their blockaded vessels. Stressing that the ships are neutral parties unrelated to the conflict in the Middle East, Trump said the operation, dubbed 'Project Freedom,' is set to begin on the morning of May 4, Middle East time. He noted that a U.S. delegation is engaged in very positive discussions with Iran that could lead to a beneficial outcome for all parties. Trump described the move as a humanitarian measure for the U.S., the Middle East, and particularly Iran, as many of the ships are running out of food and essential supplies, making it difficult to maintain the health and hygiene of their large crews. However, he warned that any interference with the humanitarian process would be met with a strong response.