President Donald Trump ordered a halt to the US military’s Project Freedom operation escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday after one day of activity, citing diplomatic progress with Iran facilitated by Pakistan and other mediators. The US leader said Washington and Tehran have mutually agreed to pause the escort mission while a final agreement to end the Middle East war is negotiated, even as the American blockade of Iran’s ports remains in force.

The pause follows clashes in the strategic chokepoint where the United States reported sinking seven Iranian boats amid attacks on civilian vessels attributed to Iran. US officials characterized Project Freedom as a defensive measure permitting return fire only if engaged, distinguishing it from broader hostilities between the United States, Israel, and Iran that began on February 28.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that Washington has completed offensive operations dubbed “Operation Epic Fury” and achieved its war objectives, including catastrophic damage to Iran’s economy. Rubio said Trump prefers a negotiated settlement despite a fragile ceasefire declared on April 8 that has held despite stalled formal talks.

Diplomatic channels remain active as mediators seek to finalize a comprehensive agreement with Tehran to end hostilities. The US military will maintain its blockade posture while awaiting conclusion of negotiations, with further decisions on escort operations contingent on the outcome of those talks.