U.S. Project Freedom aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz

The Trump administration says its new military operation, Project Freedom, is intended to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping after disruptions tied to the conflict with Iran. Officials say U.S. forces have already escorted some vessels through the waterway. Analysts and defense experts, however, question whether the mission can restore normal traffic. They say Iran still has the ability to threaten ships, which keeps insurance costs high and discourages shipping companies from returning in large numbers. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil route, and reduced traffic has already contributed to higher energy prices and supply concerns. Experts say a lasting solution would likely require a political agreement rather than a temporary military presence.