U.S. to escort ships out of Strait of Hormuz

President Trump said the United States will begin escorting ships out of the Strait of Hormuz after several countries asked for help moving vessels that have been unable to leave the area during the conflict with Iran. He warned that any interference with the operation would be dealt with “forcefully.”

The operation, which Trump called “Project Freedom,” is set to begin Monday morning, Middle East time.

Trump said countries not involved in the conflict had asked the United States to help free ships that he said were “locked up” in the strait. He described the vessels as neutral and said they were carrying crews and cargo for countries that had “absolutely nothing to do” with the dispute.

“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.

Trump said U.S. representatives have been told to inform those countries that the United States will use its “best efforts” to get the ships and crews safely out of the strait. He said the ships would not return until the area is safe for navigation.

The president said many of the ships are running low on food and other supplies needed to keep large crews on board in healthy and sanitary conditions. He described the operation as a humanitarian effort for “people, companies, and Countries that have done absolutely nothing wrong.”

“If, in any way, this Humanitarian process is interfered with, that interference will, unfortunately, have to be dealt with forcefully,” Trump added.