Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday thanked US President Donald Trump for agreeing to pause the operation escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, saying the request had been made by several countries, “particularly” Saudi Arabia.
Sharif’s post on X came hours after Trump said on Truth Social that “Project Freedom” will be paused for a “short period of time” based on the request of Pakistan and other countries “to see whether or not the agreement can be finalized and signed.”
Sharif said that he was “grateful” to Trump for his “courageous leadership and timely announcement regarding the pause in Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz.”
“Trump’s gracious response to the request made by Pakistan and other brotherly countries, particularly the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia” and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
He added that this response “will go a long way towards advancing regional peace, stability and reconciliation during this sensitive period.”
Sharif underscored that Pakistan will remain committed to supporting efforts that promote a peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.
“We are very hopeful that the current momentum will lead to a lasting agreement that secures durable peace and stability for the region and beyond.”
Trump’s so-called “Project Freedom” to help vessels leave the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow chokepoint to the Gulf where Iran has seized control in response to being attacked, began on Monday.
However, the US president said that the blockade of Iran’s ports will remain in full force and effect.
