President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States will begin assisting neutral vessels trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, pledging to “guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways” as tensions continue to rise in the region.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said governments “from all over the World” have turned to Washington for help in freeing ships “which are locked up in the Strait of Hormuz” even though they have “absolutely nothing to do” with the conflict.

He described the ships as “merely neutral and innocent bystanders.”

“For the good of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States,” Trump wrote, “we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out … so that they can freely and ably get on with their business.”

Trump said the initiative, which he called “Project Freedom,” is set to begin Monday morning Middle East time, adding that the United States will “use best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait.”

The Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments accounting for roughly one-fifth of the world’s supply, has become increasingly unstable in recent weeks. Escalating tensions involving Iran have led to heightened security concerns, rising insurance premiums, and delays in shipping, with some vessels waiting near the strait or avoiding passage entirely.

Industry sources say a number of ships have been left stranded or slowed, holding out for safer conditions or escort arrangements. Trump said conditions on board are worsening, warning that “many of these Ships are running low on food, and everything else necessary for largescale crews to stay on board in a healthy and sanitary manner.”

He framed the operation as primarily humanitarian, calling it “a Humanitarian gesture” intended to assist “people, companies, and Countries that have done absolutely nothing wrong — They are victims of circumstance.”

Trump also noted that U.S. officials are engaged in “very positive discussions with the Country of Iran,” hinting at the possibility of broader diplomatic progress.

At the same time, he cautioned that any disruption of the effort would be met with a firm response. “If, in any way, this Humanitarian process is interfered with, that interference will … have to be dealt with forcefully.”

He added that countries participating in the effort have indicated their vessels “will not be returning until the area becomes safe for navigation.”

{Matzav.com}