Shehbaz Sharif Thanks Donald Trump for Pausing Hormuz Escort Operation Amid Iran Deal Progress

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed gratitude to Donald Trump after Washington announced a pause in “Project Freedom,” a military operation aimed at escorting commercial vessels through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, the prime minister praised Trump’s “courageous leadership and timely announcement,” noting that the decision came in response to diplomatic requests from Pakistan and other countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Sharif said the move would contribute significantly to regional peace and stability at a critical time, adding that Pakistan remains committed to supporting efforts that promote restraint and peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

The development follows Trump’s announcement that the United States would temporarily halt the escort operation to allow space for negotiations, citing “great progress” toward a comprehensive agreement with Iran. The operation had been launched to facilitate safe passage for oil tankers amid escalating tensions in the Gulf.

Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had outlined efforts to assist stranded vessels as the waterway—through which nearly 20 percent of global oil supply passes—remained largely disrupted due to the conflict.

Following the announcement, global oil markets reacted positively, with US crude prices dropping below the $100 per barrel mark, reflecting optimism over easing tensions.

The conflict began after joint military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, triggering retaliatory strikes and widespread disruption across the region. A Pakistan-mediated ceasefire took effect on April 8, temporarily halting hostilities and paving the way for diplomatic engagement.

Although recent high-level talks between US and Iranian officials in Islamabad ended without a final agreement, the ceasefire has largely held, raising hopes for a broader resolution.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed optimism that the current diplomatic momentum would lead to a durable agreement ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond.