WASHINGTON, May 6 -- Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a major U.S. military initiative, dubbed "Project Freedom," during a May 5, 2026, news briefing, revealing that President Trump has ordered the military to escort thousands of stranded civilian sailors to safety through the Iranian-blockaded Strait of Hormuz. -- Marlyn T. Vitin, Targeted News Service * * * Here is the transcript of the news briefing: SECRETARY RUBIO: Hello. Thank you, guys, for having me today. I'll be filling in for Karoline today, obviously. So - no, I'll have  more PR