The United States has launched Operation Project Freedom to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iran effectively shut down one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, resulting in a global collapse in shipping traffic by over 90 percent. Confirmed by U.S. Central Command on May 4, 2026, the operation aims to reestablish even limited transit under combat conditions, directly challenging Iran’s ability to disrupt global oil flows and testing U.S. capacity to maintain maritime access under sustained missile, drone, and mine threats. Read full defense news at this link...
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| For Operation Project Freedom, U.S. Central Command deployed Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, helicopters, aircraft carriers, F-16 fighter jets, drones, and about 15,000 troops to protect commercial ships and try to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. (Picture source: CENTCOM) |