US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on X on 4/5 that US Navy guided-missile destroyers had transited the Strait of Hormuz and were operating in the Persian Gulf. This deployment supports "Project Freedom," an operation President Donald Trump launched on 3/5 to guide vessels safely out of blockaded waters.

CENTCOM confirmed that two US-flagged commercial vessels successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz and continued their journey safely. The command did not name the vessels. US forces support efforts to restore transit through the strait for commercial ships.

The conflict erupted in late February, leading Iran to blockade the Strait of Hormuz for most vessels, excluding its own and those of a few "friendly" nations. In response, the US imposed a reciprocal blockade on all Iranian seaports starting 13/4. According to the International Maritime Organization, hundreds of ships and about 20,000 sailors have been unable to pass through the strait during the conflict.

Cargo ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz on 8/4. Photo: AFP

President Trump stated on 3/5 that many countries contacted the US, requesting assistance for ships stuck in the Gulf region. CENTCOM announced the deployment of a large force for "Project Freedom," including destroyers, about 100 aircraft, unmanned vehicles, and 15,000 military personnel.

Location of the Strait of Hormuz. Graphic: Guardian

On 4/5, Iran warned it would attack any US units entering Hormuz. Iranian media reported that its forces fired warning shots and forced a US warship to turn back; local sources claimed two missiles struck the warship near Jask Island. However, CENTCOM denied the information, asserting that no US warship was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have not commented on the information.

Nhu Tam (According to AFP, Reuters)