Iran Offers Technical Support for Commercial Ships in Hormuz
The Ports and Maritime Organisation of Iran on Thursday declared its complete readiness to provide maritime, technical, and medical support services to commercial vessels navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz and adjacent regional waters, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a temporary pause to “Project Freedom” the previous day. A statement released by the maritime authority and reported by Iran’s state-run IRNA indicated that the announcement was directed at ship commanders to enhance maritime safety, improve vessel seaworthiness, and protect crew welfare. The organisation stated that the message is being officially conveyed via maritime communication channels of Iranian ports and is directed towards all vessels navigating the region, especially those operating close to Iranian territorial waters and anchorages.
As reported, the maritime authority indicated that vessels may avail themselves of various services, such as provisions, fuel supply, medical assistance, health services, and authorized repair-related materials if necessary. The Ports and Maritime Organisation underscored its regulatory and sovereign responsibilities, stating that the initiative exemplifies Iran’s dedication to maintaining safe and sustainable maritime traffic in one of the world’s most strategically significant waterways. The announcement also stated that the message will be broadcast three times daily for three consecutive days through maritime communication networks and VHF systems in the region. The advisory further instructed ship masters and owners to reach out to Vessel Traffic Service centres at the nearest Iranian ports or through local representatives on VHF channel 16 to request services and communicate operational needs.
The announcement follows Trump’s declaration on Tuesday that “Project Freedom,” an initiative designed to assist the passage of commercial vessels trapped in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions in the Gulf, will be temporarily paused as long as the naval blockade of Iran’s ports is in effect. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the decision was made in response to requests from Pakistan, which has been serving as a mediator to facilitate a peace deal between Washington and Tehran, along with other nations. Trump asserted that the decision was also influenced by what he characterized as substantial military advancements during the campaign against Iran, as well as progress toward a possible agreement with Iranian representatives.
The US President further stated that the pause was announced to “see whether or not the Agreement can be finalised and signed” between Tehran and Washington.”Based on the request of Pakistan and other Countries, the tremendous Military Success that we have had during the Campaign against the Country of Iran and, additionally, the fact that Great Progress has been made toward a Complete and Final Agreement with Representatives of Iran, we have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom (The Movement of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalised and signed,” the post read.
