U.S. Launches Escort Operation as Iran Responds Firmly, Escalating Strategic Rivalry

Summary:

The U.S. “Freedom of Navigation for Shipping” operation will begin Monday morning Middle East time; media reveal details of Iran’s latest negotiation proposal...

Key Highlights

1. U.S. “Freedom of Navigation for Shipping” operation to launch Monday morning (Middle East time)

2. U.S. gasoline prices surge nearly 50% since the Iran conflict began

3. Trump says Iran’s new proposal is unacceptable

4. Media disclose details of Iran’s latest negotiation plan

5. Major oil producers announce output increase for the third consecutive month

6. Russia says it will force Ukraine to accept a deal via special military operations if necessary

Details

U.S. “Freedom of Navigation for Shipping” operation to launch Monday morning (Middle East time)

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on social media that while most countries are not directly involved in the Middle East conflict, many have appealed to the United States for assistance in rescuing their vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. For the benefit of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, Washington will guide ships safely out of the restricted waterway so they can resume normal operations. The mission, named “Freedom of Navigation for Shipping,” is set to begin Monday morning Middle East time.

U.S. representatives are engaged in highly constructive communications with Iran, which could lead to positive outcomes for all parties. The operation aims to assist innocent civilians, businesses, and affected countries whose vessels are caught in the الأزمة. It is described as a humanitarian effort by the United States and regional countries, including Iran. Many ships are reportedly running low on food and essential supplies for crew health and sanitation. Trump said the move would demonstrate goodwill and help break the stalemate of recent months, warning that any interference would be met with force if necessary.

U.S. gasoline prices surge nearly 50% since the Iran conflict began

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average price of regular gasoline in the United States has risen to $4.45 per gallon. Prices increased by 35 cents over the past week and have climbed $1.47 since February 28, marking a total increase of 49.3% since the conflict began.

Trump says Iran’s new proposal is unacceptable

On the evening of May 3 (local time), President Trump said in a phone interview that he had reviewed Iran’s latest proposal and found it unacceptable. He also urged Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing corruption charges.

Media disclose details of Iran’s latest negotiation plan

According to Al Jazeera, Iran has proposed a three-phase negotiation framework.

In the first phase, Iran calls for transforming the current ceasefire into a comprehensive truce within 30 days, covering all regional allies and Israel. It also proposes a gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a phased lifting of restrictions on Iranian ports. Iran would undertake mine-clearing operations and revise earlier compensation-related proposals.

The second phase includes discussions on a “complete halt to uranium enrichment” for up to 15 years. After this period, Iran would resume enrichment under a “zero stockpile” principle. The proposal opposes dismantling nuclear facilities and suggests transferring or diluting existing highly enriched uranium stockpiles.

In the third phase, Iran would engage with regional countries in strategic talks to establish a comprehensive regional security framework.

Major oil producers announce output increase for the third consecutive month

OPEC announced on May 3 that seven major OPEC+ producers—Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman—have agreed to increase oil production by 188,000 barrels per day in June. This marks the first decision since the UAE’s withdrawal and the third consecutive monthly increase. The UAE’s exit may further weaken the influence of OPEC and OPEC+ in global markets.

Russia warns of forcing Ukraine to accept terms if no agreement is reached

On May 3, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that if Ukraine refuses to reach an agreement, Russia will continue and intensify its military operations until its objectives are achieved.

Peskov emphasized that resolving the conflict through a peace agreement remains Russia’s preferred option. Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly share similar assessments of Ukraine’s actions.

He also warned that Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure could push oil prices even higher.

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