Trump Warns of Expanded Hormuz Operation

President Donald Trump warned over the weekend that the United States could revive and expand a recently paused military operation in the Strait of Hormuz, dubbing the potential escalation "Project Freedom Plus," after rejecting Iran's response to a US peace proposal.

The original "Project Freedom" initiative, launched by US Central Command last Monday, aimed to escort commercial ships through the strategic waterway to ensure freedom of navigation amid Iranian restrictions. It involved guided-missile destroyers, aircraft, unmanned systems and thousands of personnel but was suspended after less than 48 hours at the request of Pakistan and other regional mediators to allow time for negotiations. A broader US naval blockade of Iranian ports has remained in effect since April 13.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday outside the White House, Trump said, "We may go back to Project Freedom if things don't happen, but it'll be Project Freedom Plus, meaning Project Freedom plus other things." He provided no details on the expanded measures but indicated openness to alternatives, including greater involvement from allies. On Sunday, Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran's response was...