Trump says U.S. will 'guide' stranded ships through the Strait. And, key Senate races to watch

Good morning. You're reading the Up First newsletter. Subscribe here to get it delivered to your inbox, and listen to the Up First podcast for all the news you need to start your day. Today's top stories President Trump announced that the U.S. will "guide" stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz starting today. The president called the operation "Project Freedom" and described it as an effort to free hundreds of ships and crews trapped in the crucial waterway since the start of the war with Iran. Trump says he is also evaluating a new offer from Iran, but has not ruled out the option of war. President Trump disembarks from Air Force One upon arrival from Miami on May 3, 2026, at Joint Base Andrews, Florida. Roberto Schmidt/ hide caption toggle caption Roberto Schmidt/ 🎧 The U.S. Central Command said the mission would include guided-missile destroyers , more than 100 aircraft and 15,000 service members. Iran says Project Freedom violates the ceasefire agreement. Little is known about the new offer the president is reviewing, NPR's Mara Liasson tells Up First . Trump says he's been briefed on the concept of a deal, and Iranians will give him the exact wording soon . Liasson says the economic impact of the war is weighing on Trump politically. His approval rating is down across the board, and Republicans want the war to end. …