Trump Announces Project Freedom to Escort Ships from Strait of Hormuz

and Incidents German Chancellor Friedrich

Merz stated that the U.S. will not station Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany for the time being. Merz told ARD public broadcaster that the U.S. lacks sufficient missiles currently. He noted that the missiles were promised in 2024 to strengthen Germany’s deterrent until Europe develops its own systems.

Merz described the announced withdrawal of more than 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany as not new, stating the contingent was temporary and discussions on withdrawal had been ongoing. He denied any connection to his criticism of the U.S. actions in the Iran conflict and affirmed continued cooperation with President Trump.

Merz also stated that U.S. commitment to nuclear deterrence in NATO remains unchanged. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency reported a tanker off the UAE’s Fujairah coast was hit by unknown projectiles. All crew were safe, with no environmental impact.

Earlier, the agency reported a bulk carrier attacked by multiple small craft off the Iranian coast near Sirik.

Corps specialist Jonathan Hackett stated that the U.S. Navy lacks sufficient assets to escort hundreds of stranded ships. Hackett told Al Jazeera there are only about 12 suitable Navy vessels. He noted that before the conflict, over 100 transits occurred daily through the strait.

Hackett identified risks from sea mines, stating the U.S. retired its mine-sweeping vessels last year. He also said Iran retains dozens or hundreds of small fast-attack boats capable of harassing vessels. Hackett questioned whether insurance companies would allow transits even if passage is deemed safe.