Trump declared on Sunday that "Project Freedom" would begin the next morning in an attempt to unblock the crucial waterway which Tehran has effectively closed since the start of the US-Israel war with Iran. Iran's threats to ships using the strait - through which some 20% of the world's oil and gas flows - has led to large increases in the oil price and fears for the global economy. But 50 hours later the president posted that the mission was being put on hold "for a short period of time". His decision came on the same day his defence secretary had declared the US was "leading with strength, clarity and purpose for the benefit of the entire world". "For the good of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, we have told these Countries that we will guide their Ships safely out of these restricted Waterways, so that they can freely and ably get on with their business," Trump posted on his Truth Social social media platform. "I have told my Representatives to inform them that we will use best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait." According to the Baltic and International Maritime Council shipping association some 1,000 vessels with around 20,000 seafarers on board are currently stranded in the region. Trump said the "humanitarian gesture" would start on "Monday morning Middle East time". "I am fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all," he added. (BBC)