News Analysis: Trump Suspends Project Freedom After Just Two Days

US President Donald Trump has put “Project Freedom” on hold barely two days after launching the naval operation to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the White House, the pause was ordered to give ongoing peace talks with Iran a better chance of success. While the naval blockade on Iranian ports remains active, the protection of merchant vessels has been temporarily suspended.

Winners and Losers in the Oil Crisis
The prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has produced clear winners and losers in the global energy market.

Russia has benefited the most, earning billions of dollars in additional revenue from elevated oil prices. India is also making significant profits as its refineries, particularly Numaligarh Refinery, have increased diesel exports to Bangladesh through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.

Bangladesh, however, finds itself in a difficult position. The country is already under strong pressure from the IMF to increase electricity tariffs. The current rise in global fuel prices is expected to push power costs even higher in the coming months, adding to the burden on industries and ordinary consumers.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been actively engaged in diplomacy, visiting Russia and most recently China to seek support for a negotiated settlement.

Trump’s sudden decision to suspend the operation after such a short period reflects his preference for using military pressure as a bargaining tool. Whether this approach will ultimately lead to a lasting agreement or simply delay a more serious conflict is something only time will tell.