US President Donald Trump has announced a temporary halt to the US campaign to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He made the announcement on the Truth social platform on Tuesday night, citing “requests” from other countries, including Pakistan, and “significant progress on a full and final agreement” with Iranian representatives. He wrote, “While the blockade will remain in full force, it has been mutually agreed to temporarily suspend ‘Project Freedom’ so that the agreement can be finalized and signed.” Trump’s announcement comes amid rising tensions in the Gulf region. Iran has not commented on the matter. Earlier, Trump had told reporters on Tuesday that Iran was forced to negotiate due to US military and economic pressure. “Iran wants to make a deal. But what I don’t like is that they talk to me with respect,” he said, “and then they go on television and say, ‘We haven’t talked to the President.’ They’re playing games.” But I say, they want to make a deal. Who doesn’t? When your military power is completely weakened.’ Meanwhile, the US military said it had destroyed some Iranian boats, cruise missiles and drones. The United Arab Emirates also said its air defenses had neutralized a missile and drone attack from Iran for the second day. Similarly, another commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz was reportedly hit by an “unidentified projectile.” Iran said it had implemented a new system for ships wishing to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Under the system, ships will receive the latest traffic regulations via email from Persian Gulf authorities.