WASHINGTON: Project Freedom, the U.S. Navy’s main operation in the Strait of Hormuz, has had a slow start. Only three commercial ships passed through under American guidance in the first two days, which is much less than expected.
President Donald Trump launched the initiative to reopen the key waterway after Iran said it was closed following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on February 28.
So far, analysts say the results are mostly symbolic. Two U.S. commercial ships went through on May 4, and only one did on May 5.
That figure pales in comparison to this number, which is much lower than before the conflict, when about 130 ships crossed the strait each day.
Critics say the effort could be seen as “Project Deadlock” instead of “Project Freedom.” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also mocked the slow progress.
The operation illustrates the limits of U.S. power in the strait, suggesting it is unlikely to restore shipping flows to pre-conflict levels.
Analysts clarify that the Navy’s role has been mostly limited to “traffic coordination,” focusing on marking mine locations and maintaining defensive postures, rather than providing direct ship escorts or aggressive intervention.The Strait of Hormuz is narrow and exposed, and some call it a ‘Kill Box.’ This makes full protection risky, so shipping companies are hesitant to pass through unless they have strong safety guarantees. using Project Freedom less to reopen the Strait practically and more as a military and political lever in talks with Tehran. Unless future operations deliver concrete improvements in shipping security, the effort risks reinforcing perceptions of American limitations rather than restoring confidence in maritime stability.
