Trump pauses Hormuz operation as US-Iran talks progress

Trump has halted "Project Freedom" — the US military operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz — saying enough diplomatic progress has been made to give talks a chance. The pause is significant: the strait carries roughly 20% of global oil traffic, and its partial blockade has already pushed US gas prices toward $4.50 a gallon, a four-year high. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed a ceasefire with Iran remains in place while negotiations continue.