Hegseth claims Strait of Hormuz actions are ‘separate and distinct’ from Iran war

The US Defense Secretary emphasized that the operation to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is ‘separate and distinct’ from the ongoing war with Iran. ‘Project Freedom’ aims to restart the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising petroleum prices. The US is focused on preventing Iran’s international extortion and securing the waterway’s safety.