Reactions and statements from the international community
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the implementation of "Project Freedom," aimed at rescuing 23,000 civilians in the Persian Gulf and reducing the Iranian regime's revenue through a naval blockade.
Morad Vaisi, a senior analyst at Iran International, stated that the IRGC's missile and drone attacks on the UAE are ongoing, and there are heightened expectations for a U.S. response to these attacks.
The U.S. Secretary of State announced that as part of the "Strait of Hormuz Freedom Project," all ships will be escorted through the strait, emphasizing a defensive posture and the use of "lethal force" in response to any attack on American forces.
During a White House press briefing, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz poses a significant threat, likening it to holding all ships hostage. He warned that if Iran acquires nuclear weapons, it would pose an even greater risk to global security.
MT CS Anthem, a U.S.-flagged medium-range tanker operated by Crowley Stena Marine Solutions, was identified as part of the second convoy escorted through the Strait of Hormuz on May 4 as part of Project Freedom. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) observed the convoy and did not attack.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the United Nations for its lack of action regarding Iran's activities in the Strait of Hormuz, including the seizure of vessels and mining of waters, during a speech on the UN's ineffectiveness in addressing global conflicts.
The UK's Maritime Trade Operations agency announced that a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz was targeted by an "unidentified projectile" from a verified source. The agency warned ships to report any suspicious activity as the investigation continues.
The United States declared a ceasefire with Iran intact on October 15, 2025, following skirmishes at sea and missile strikes.
UAE’s Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, delivered a speech at the Make it in Emirates (MIITE) conference, addressing Iran’s attacks, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and the UAE’s exit from OPEC, emphasizing the need for industrial sovereignty and a new AI strategy for advanced manufacturing.
Secretary of State Rubio announced that several countries have sought U.S. assistance to secure the release of their vessels detained in the Strait of Hormuz.
A citizen journalist in Iran provided an audio report to Radio IranWire stating that the current unemployment rate is significantly higher than officially reported, as many workers in informal sectors like online businesses and day labor are not included in official statistics.
A cargo vessel was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The environmental impact of the incident is currently unknown.
