The United States said it will begin on 4 May an operation to free merchant vessels stranded following Iran’s closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which has been disrupted since the start of the conflict.

US President Donald Trump described the effort, named “Project Freedom,” as a humanitarian initiative, warning that any interference would be met with force. In a post on Truth Social, he said countries around the world had requested US assistance, referring to the affected vessels as neutral and innocent bystanders

“For the good of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business,” Trump said.

Furthermore, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation would involve around 15,000 US service members, guided-missile destroyers and more than 100 aircraft, while the blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place.

“Our support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy as we also maintain the naval blockade,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander.

The development comes amid a temporary ceasefire between the two sides, which began on 8 April, as efforts continue toward a more permanent peace agreement.

However, Iran’s military has warned the United States against entering the Strait of Hormuz.

Following Trump’s announcement, Iranian forces said US military assets would be targeted if they enter the area. Ali Abdollahi, head of Iran’s unified military command, also stated that commercial vessels and oil tankers should avoid transit unless coordinated with Iranian authorities.

According to the latest update, Iran’s foreign ministry says it is ready to respond to US threats in the strait.

In a statement shared by Mehr news agency, spokesperson Esmail Baghaie says Iran remains the strait’s “guardian and protector”. He adds: “Ships and shipping companies well know that ensuring their security requires coordination with the competent authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

Baghaie says there’s no reason for countries who follow the rule of law to follow “illegal actions” by the US.