U.S. "Hormuz Operation" may be launched within hours; shipping industry questions the feasibility of the escort plan

BlockBeats News, May 4, according to sources, the U.S. is expected to launch military escort operations for the Strait of Hormuz within hours. U.S. President Trump previously announced the launch of “Project Freedom,” planning to provide passage protection for stranded cargo ships to restore shipping order in the Persian Gulf.

However, due to the lack of specific execution details, the shipping industry generally remains cautious. Several shipowners and vessel management officials noted that there is still no clarity on mine clearance, air defense and anti-missile support, or response mechanisms after an attack. Although the Joint Maritime Information Center has confirmed the establishment of a “strengthened security zone,” it has not released specific escort procedures.

Meanwhile, regional security risks continue to heat up. A report from the UK Maritime Trade Operations shows that an oil tanker in waters near Fujairah was attacked by unknown munitions. Previously, bulk cargo ships near Iranian waters were also harassed by small vessels. Data shows that since the start of this round of conflict, there have been 37 maritime security incidents in the region, including 24 that were identified as direct attacks.

Iran has warned that if the U.S. conducts a military intervention in the Strait of Hormuz, it will be regarded as a violation of the ceasefire agreement. Analysts believe that “Project Freedom” more reflects geopolitical power-struggle intentions. In the absence of clear rules and multilateral coordination mechanisms, it may further increase the risk of misjudgments and raise shipping insurance costs. For now, most shipping companies are still choosing to wait and see.