Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed US President Donald Trump’s decision to temporarily pause “Project Freedom,” a maritime initiative aimed at assisting ships transiting through the Strait of Hormuz during heightened regional tensions.
Read More: Trump pauses Project Freedom amid Iran talks
In a statement shared on social media, the prime minister thanked Trump for what he described as a timely and bold decision, saying the move could help reduce tensions and create space for diplomacy in the region.
I am grateful to President Donald Trump for his courageous leadership and timely announcement regarding the pause in Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz.
President Trump’s gracious response to the request made by Pakistan and other brotherly countries, particularly the…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 6, 2026
Shehbaz Sharif said President Trump had demonstrated decisive leadership by announcing the temporary suspension of the project, which was introduced amid ongoing tensions linked to maritime security and the broader US-Iran conflict.
According to the prime minister, the decision came in response to requests from Pakistan and other friendly countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
He noted that Washington’s positive response at a sensitive moment would contribute to promoting peace, stability, and reconciliation across the region.
The premier reiterated Pakistan’s support for all efforts aimed at resolving disputes through restraint, dialogue, and diplomatic engagement rather than escalation.
He expressed hope that the latest development would pave the way for a broader and more durable agreement capable of ensuring long-term regional stability.
Project Freedom was launched by the United States as part of efforts to facilitate safe maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz following disruptions linked to tensions with Iran.
Its temporary suspension is being viewed as a possible confidence-building measure amid reports of renewed diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran.
Regional observers say the move may help ease immediate security concerns in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes daily. Pakistan has consistently called for de-escalation and peaceful conflict resolution throughout recent tensions in the Gulf.
Read More: Iran standoff risks becoming political pressure for Trump
Analysts believe Islamabad’s diplomatic engagement on the issue reflects its broader effort to maintain regional stability while balancing ties with key international and regional stakeholders.
The pause in Project Freedom comes as reports suggest the US and Iran are exploring a potential framework agreement covering maritime issues, sanctions relief, and nuclear-related concerns.