President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States would temporarily pause its "Project Freedom" operation to guide stranded commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz but would maintain the naval blockade of Iranian ports. The decision comes as negotiations between Washington and Tehran show signs of progress.
"We're making good progress in the talks with Iran," Trump said during a White House briefing. "I've decided to pause the Project Freedom operation while we continue discussions, but we're not lifting the blockade until we get the right deal."
The announcement follows reports that Iran is reviewing a new US proposal aimed at ending the conflict that began in late 2025. Diplomatic sources indicate that both sides are moving closer to a temporary agreement that would halt military operations while negotiations continue.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to the Vatican for an audience with Pope Leo XIV, attempting to smooth over diplomatic tensions after Trump criticized the pontiff for his comments on the Iran conflict. Rubio's visit represents an effort to mend relations with the Catholic Church leadership.
In domestic politics, Tennessee is poised to vote on a new congressional district map sought by Trump that would carve up Memphis, potentially affecting Democratic representation in the state. The redistricting effort is part of a broader political strategy ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.