"Project Freedom is Project Deadlock": Iran warns US over Hormuz tensions as Trump downplays UAE strike claims

Tehran [Iran], May 5 : Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in response to the ongoing US Project Freedom and the recent strikes on the UAE on Tuesday, said that the events in the Strait of Hormuz region highlight the limits of military approaches to political disputes.

In a post on X, he said, "Events in Hormuz make clear that there's no military solution to a political crisis."

https://x.com/araghchi/status/2051419381981409354

He added that ongoing negotiations, which he said were advancing with Pakistan's involvement, should not be disrupted, warning that "the US should be wary of being dragged back into quagmire by ill-wishers. So should the UAE."

He said, "Events in Hormuz make clear that there's no military solution to a political crisis. As talks are making progress with Pakistan's gracious effort, the U.S. should be wary of being dragged back into quagmire by ill-wishers. So should the UAE."

Araghchi concluded, "Project Freedom is Project Deadlock."

His comments came as questions mounted over reported missile incidents in the United Arab Emirates. In response, US President Donald Trump told ABC News he would not immediately characterise the event as a ceasefire violation.

"It was not heavy firing," Trump said. "They were shot down for the most part." When pressed further, he added, "We'll let you know... I'm looking into it." He also warned, "Iran better hope [the ceasefire] remains in effect. The best thing that can happen to them is that we keep it in effect."

Meanwhile, Iranian state media IRIB quoted a senior Iranian military official rejecting allegations of a planned strike on UAE infrastructure. The official said, "Iran had No pre-planned intention to attack the Fujairah oil facilities."

He further argued that the situation stemmed from broader regional tensions, stating, "The incident resulted from US military adventurism to create an illegal passage through restricted areas of the Strait of Hormuz. US must be held accountable."

Meanwhile, the UAE Ministry of Defense said its air defence systems engaged 12 ballistic missiles, 3 cruise missiles, and 4 unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran. The ministry reported that the attack resulted in three moderate injuries.

In an official statement posted by the UAE Ministry of Defense on X, it mentioned that the country's defences have now intercepted hundreds of incoming projectiles since the beginning of "blatant Iranian attacks," including a total of 549 ballistic missiles, 29 cruise missiles, and 2,260 UAVs.

Three Indian nationals have been injured after attacks took place in Fujairah. The Embassy of India in the UAE said that it remains in touch with local authorities to ensure adequate medical care for the Indian nationals.

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy said, "Three Indian nationals have been injured in today's attacks in Fujairah. We are in touch with local authorities for ensuring adequate medical care and welfare of the affected Indian nationals."

Khaleej Times had reported on Monday citing Fujairah authorities which said that three Indians sustained moderate injuries after an Iranian attack that resulted in a fire in the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone (FOIZ).

According to the report, the affected Indians have been transferred to a hospital for treatment.

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