ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed appreciation to US President Donald Trump for what he described as “courageous leadership” and a timely decision to pause the maritime operation known as Project Freedom in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, the premier said the move came at a critical juncture and reflected a constructive response to the request made by Pakistan alongside several allied nations.
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
He particularly acknowledged the role of Saudi Arabia and its leadership, including Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, for their diplomatic engagement during the evolving situation.
The prime minister noted that Washington’s decision to halt the operation, which had been aimed at ensuring the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened tensions – could contribute significantly to easing regional strain.
He emphasised that such steps help create space for dialogue and reduce the risk of escalation in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.
Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic stance, the prime minister reiterated that Islamabad remains firmly committed to supporting initiatives that prioritise restraint and peaceful conflict resolution.
He underlined that dialogue and diplomacy must remain the cornerstone of efforts to address disputes, particularly in regions marked by complex geopolitical rivalries.
The statement further conveyed optimism that the current momentum generated by coordinated diplomatic efforts would lead to a broader and more sustainable agreement.
According to the prime minister, such an outcome would not only stabilise the immediate region but also contribute to wider international peace and security.
He concluded by expressing hope that continued engagement among key stakeholders would yield a durable framework capable of ensuring long-term stability, safeguarding global trade routes, and fostering reconciliation during a period of heightened uncertainty.
The United States has temporarily suspended “Project Freedom” – a naval operation facilitating the movement of commercial shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz – following requests from Pakistan and several other countries, President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday.
The decision comes amid ongoing US–Iran negotiations, facilitated by Pakistan, which have shown signs of progress, though a final agreement has yet to be reached.
In a statement posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said the pause was agreed upon after consultations with multiple stakeholders and was intended to create space for negotiations with Tehran to advance.
