May 05, Kathmandu - U.S. President Donald Trump has dispatched a warship to break the maritime blockade at the Strait of Hormuz. The operation aims to secure a safe passage for hundreds of stranded ships and crew members in the Gulf region amid rising tensions. This initiative, launched on Monday and dubbed ‘Operation Freedom’ by Trump, has brought the prospect of full-scale conflict closer as Iran seeks to reimpose its blockade.

The U.S. military action began just hours after Trump announced the operation on social media on Sunday night. Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the U.S. Central Command, reported that American forces destroyed six small Iranian boats and intercepted Iranian cruise missiles and drones, issuing a strong warning for Iran to stay away from U.S. military assets.

Iran has denied these claims, asserting that two American commercial vessels safely navigated the strait and dismissing accusations of aggression. Meanwhile, U.S. missile-equipped warships patrol the Gulf from opposite directions, heightening regional tensions.

During a press conference, Trump attempted to downplay the situation, stating that Iran's attacks had caused limited damage, aside from an explosion and fire on a South Korean cargo ship. However, in an interview with Fox News, Trump issued a stark warning: “If Iran attacks an American ship, it will be wiped off the earth.” He also claimed Iran has shown some flexibility in peace talks.

Iran has warned of retaliation if U.S. warships approach too closely, claiming to have hit an American vessel with two missiles. Reports also surfaced of an attack on a tanker near Oman, after an unknown object struck a tanker following Trump’s announcement. The UAE reported an Iranian drone attack on the MV Barakah oil tanker off Oman’s coast, with no casualties.

Iran reportedly intercepted three Iranian-launched missiles, with a fourth falling into the sea in its territorial waters. Since the U.S. and Israel’s attack on Iran on February 28, approximately 850 ships remain stranded in the Gulf. Iran responded by blocking foreign shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, and Trump imposed restrictions on Iranian port use on April 13.

Despite a ceasefire mediated by Pakistan in April, maritime routes remain closed, leaving around 20,000 sailors stranded and increasing global concerns. The U.S. operation aims to ensure safe navigation without deploying direct military force, guiding ships through Omani waters instead.