Update on Project Freedom Amid Tensions in Strait of Hormuz
On May 5, 2026, Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Cain updated the public on Project Freedom, which aims to assist commercial vessels in navigating the Strait of Hormuz safely.
During a press conference, Hegseth highlighted that two U.S.-flagged cargo ships and a U.S. destroyer had already passed through the waterway, which he claimed embarrassed Iran. He pointedly remarked that, despite Iran’s assertions, they do not actually control the strait.
“They say they control the Strait, but they actually don’t,” he stated.
Describing the mission that began on Monday, he characterized it as a protective measure, portraying it as a “red, white and blue dome” for the region.
While the military is securing safe passage for commercial ships, Hegseth reiterated that the blockade of Iranian ports is still active. He noted that six ships had attempted to breach this blockade since Project Freedom’s launch but were unsuccessful.
This initiative differs significantly from Operation Epic Fury, a previous U.S.-led military operation against Iran. Hegseth emphasized that Project Freedom is focused on safeguarding commercial shipping lanes and is intended to be non-aggressive, although he maintained that the U.S. is prepared to respond if Iranian forces act aggressively.
General Cain stressed the significance of these shipping routes, which are vital for approximately one-fifth of the global oil supply. He accused Iran of attempting to leverage its position to disrupt the global economy through intimidation and blockades.
Since the start of Operation Epic Fury on February 28, the strait has been largely closed. Cain mentioned that, following a ceasefire announced in early April, Iran has fired upon commercial vessels multiple times, seized two ships, and attacked U.S. forces over ten times. However, he mentioned that while the threats have been neutralized, they haven’t reached a level that would necessitate resuming extensive combat operations.
Over 22,500 crew members are currently stranded on more than 1,550 commercial ships in the Arabian Gulf.
When announcing Project Freedom, President Trump called it a “humanitarian act” and acknowledged the dire circumstances faced by the crews aboard the trapped ships.
“This is a humanitarian action on behalf of the United States, the countries of the Middle East, and especially the State of Iran. Many of these ships are running low on food and everything needed to keep their large crews healthy and sanitary on board,” Trump posted on social media.
Cain outlined the military resources involved in the project, explaining that U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has created a fortified security zone south of the strait, supported by ground, air, and naval forces totaling around 15,000 personnel.
When asked about potential threats from small Iranian vessels, Hegseth remarked that while any significant threat should be taken seriously, Iran is now down to using smaller boats. Previous assault attempts had been neutralized before they could escalate into a serious risk for U.S. ships.
Ingersoll also raised concerns about the perception that the U.S. lacks a strategic approach for the mission.
“The strategy remains laser-focused,” Hegseth assured.
He reaffirmed that Project Freedom is distinct from Operation Epic Fury, aiming specifically to reopen commercial shipping routes.
Both Hegseth and Cain reiterated the ceasefire status but confirmed the U.S. is ready to escalate military action if deemed necessary. Hegseth maintained that the overarching goal remains clear: ensuring that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons.
