Trump invites South Korea to join Project Freedom after Iran attacks vessels in Hormuz
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump has stepped up calls for broader international military coordination in the Middle East following a series of confrontations in the Strait of Hormuz.
In a social media statement on Monday, May 4, the President said Iranian forces had targeted vessels belonging to countries not directly involved in the conflict, citing a recent incident involving a South Korean cargo ship.
The development comes as the United States leads "PROJECT FREEDOM," a multinational effort aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping routes in the region.
The President indicated that the reported targeting of South Korean shipping could prompt wider participation in the mission. "Perhaps it’s time for South Korea to come and join the mission!"
Trump said, framing the situation as a shared international concern. He added that aside from the reported incident, there has been no additional confirmed damage to vessels transiting the Strait at this time.
US forces neutralize Iranian fast boats
President Trump also stated that US forces had engaged and destroyed seven small Iranian vessels during recent encounters. Referring to them as "fast boats," he indicated that the actions were part of defensive operations in response to maritime threats.
"It’s all they have left," Trump said, suggesting that Iran’s smaller naval assets are being used in attempts to disrupt ship movements involving non-combatant nations.
The announcement highlights ongoing tensions in the waterway, which remains a critical corridor for global energy and trade flows. US officials have not released additional operational details beyond the President’s remarks.
South Korea urged to join mission
The reference to the South Korean cargo vessel signals a shift toward encouraging greater involvement from regional partners.
By pointing to the reported incident, the administration is emphasizing the broader economic and security implications of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The President’s statement frames the protection of shipping lanes as a shared responsibility, with PROJECT FREEDOM positioned as a coordinated international effort.
The call for participation reflects ongoing discussions around burden-sharing in maintaining maritime security in the region.
Senior leadership holds urgent news conference
A formal briefing on the situation has been scheduled for Tuesday morning. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine are expected to address recent developments and provide updates on PROJECT FREEDOM operations.
The President concluded his statement by noting that additional details regarding the reported engagements and the condition of the South Korean vessel would be outlined by senior defense officials.
