U.S. CENTCOM announced the maritime “Project Freedom” operation as Iran cautions against foreign military presence.
The United States has announced a new military-backed maritime security operation aimed at ensuring passage for commercial vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a move that has drawn sharp warnings from Iran.
According to United States Central Command (CENTCOM), forces will begin supporting “Project Freedom” on 4 May following direction from U.S. President Donald Trump.
The mission is intended to “restore and maintain freedom of navigation” in one of the world’s most critical trade corridors that has become the epicentre of the U.S.-Iran conflict.
Roughly a quarter of global maritime oil shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz, along with significant volumes of fuel and fertilizers.
“Our support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy as we also maintain the naval blockade,” said commander of CENTCOM Brad Cooper.
U.S. officials said the operation will involve a substantial deployment of military assets, including guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 aircraft across land and sea, unmanned systems, and approximately 15,000 service members.
The effort is also tied to a broader diplomatic initiative unveiled last week by the United States Department of State, in coordination with the Department of War, aimed at strengthening cooperation with international partners.
The initiative, known as the Maritime Freedom Construct, is designed to enhance information sharing and align diplomatic and military efforts to support maritime security in the key waterway.
However, Iran has issued a strong response.
In statements shared by Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that Iranian forces would act decisively against any foreign military presence.
“We will maintain and manage the security of the Strait of Hormuz with all our might,” the commander said, urging commercial vessels to coordinate with Iranian forces.
“We warn that any foreign armed force, especially the aggressive U.S. army, will be attacked if they intend to approach and enter the Strait of Hormuz.”
