President Donald Trump has signaled openness to reviving Project Freedom, the brief U.S. naval effort to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid Iranian tensions, after pausing the original operation within 36 hours to pursue diplomatic talks. Recent reports indicate the administration is evaluating an expanded version, sometimes referred to as Project Freedom Plus, that could involve broader security measures beyond basic escorts. Gulf allies including Saudi Arabia and Kuwait reportedly restored base and airspace access following earlier restrictions, potentially easing operational constraints. Traders are monitoring White House statements, any new directives to U.S. Central Command, and progress in U.S.-Iran negotiations as key variables that could determine whether the initiative resumes before the market’s resolution window.